Lean Towards the Light by Lillian Rhoades

When I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light to me (Micah 7:8b NKJ).

The baby leaf poked its way up through the mature leaves of my Umbrella plant, and after seeing evidence of new growth, especially since few plants survive under my care, I glowed at my accomplishments. But I was more fascinated by the bend of the tiny stem. Earlier that week, I had rotated the plant to make sure all parts had equal access to the window. Today, the emerging stem showed a remarkable ability to adjust to its source for growth. The base of the stem had curved towards the light that filtered through the window.

Leaning towards its source of energy begs for further spiritual application, but of far more interest to me is this: At night, when the shades are drawn and darkness hides the sun, the tiny leaf doesn't reverse course, but keeps growing in the same direction.

How often do we doubt God in the dark times and question whether our walk of faith is leading us in the right direction? It's easy to do. A son whom you prayed for remains in Satan's camp, or healing for a loved one was not in God's plan and you question God's love, or even His existence. Could it be that a Christian friend has betrayed you, and dark clouds of doubt hide your view of what you once believed?

Be encouraged. No matter how dark it may seem, God's light and His love can overcome it. Keep leaning towards your source of spiritual growth. Even though at times it may look as if darkness has overtaken it, that Light will never fail.

Lillian Rhoades writes from upstate, N.Y. Her book, When Youth Fades, is available on Amazon. Contact