Read: Psalm 36
For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light. (v. 9)
Changing a tire after dark is a cruel undertaking, especially if you’re relying on just a flashlight for illumination. If you have ever had to do that, you were probably desperate, or you wouldn’t have tried it in the first place. By contrast, I think of my dad’s wonderful magnifying glass light, and how it spilled brilliant white light onto his crafting table, so even his 91-year-old eyes could see the finest detail through its lens.
Here, David writes a song that contrasts evildoers with followers of God. He says God’s light allows us an epiphany—to see even more light—illumination we don’t get until we step into it. Like a lighted magnifying glass, God’s light can show us what others only dream of, such as the fountain of life. So many desperate people search for how and where to get more life, longer life, perpetual youth. But the way to life forever is lit up and magnified for those who believe.
Those who turn away from God don’t get that illumination. “Transgression speaks to the wicked deep in his heart,” wrote David, “there is no fear of God before his eyes. For he flatters himself in his own eyes” (vv. 1-2). People who reject the magnifying light hear the voice of seduction; rather than seeing and knowing God, they are god in their own eyes. A dim flashlight on a dark night indeed. —Amy Clemens
As you pray, name with gratitude the epiphanies you’ve had since you stepped into the light that begets light.
About the Author
With a bachelors in journalism from Texas Tech University and a masters from Western Theological Seminary, Amy Clemens enjoys all things writing, particularly about the life of faith. She is blessed with a family that includes husband Fred, five children, and five grandchildren.
Amy has just published her first book, "Walking When You'd Rather Fly: Meditations on Faith After the Fall," which weaves her journey from childhood abuse toward healing and spiritual growth with a practical theology for the big story of God. You can find out more about the book and author at walkingwhenyoudratherfly.com.
