Do You Use a Nightlight?

It is alarming what the mind can imagine in the darkness.

The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid? —Psalm 27:1

We had two of our grandchildren overnight recently. We don’t get to do it often, but I always love having the grands because it’s like going back to the day their parents were children.

One of the nightly rhythms we have with them is reading a story (currently A Horse and His Boy, from The Chronicles of Narnia) and then we pray together. Then, just before we turn off the main light in the room, we turn on the nightlight.

Our nightlight is a small 6-watt light fixture in the corner of the bedroom. The main light goes off, then we say “We love you. Good night” and exit the room (leaving the door open, of course). 

But behind us is the nightlight.

As I think about it, we had the same nightlight for our own children as well. I had forgotten about that little light until we began hosting the grands.

Darkness can be a scary thing for a child. But light dispels darkness. The nightlight is a reminder that they are safe and have nothing to be afraid of.

In the darkness, their imagination can take over and fill their mind with all kinds of fears…the fear of something under the bed, in the closet, or somewhere else in the room.

But with the nightlight they can open their eyes, scan the room, and see that there is nothing to be afraid of. They are safe.

The same is true of us. In dark times, we can imagine the very worst. We can be overcome with fear of something that doesn’t even exist.

No wonder the psalmist says

The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?

In moments of darkness, we can remember that God is not only our light, but he is the one who saves—whether the fear is real or imagined—He keeps me safe.

Then, more than just giving me light, salvation and confidence, He is the stronghold of my life—a fortress of protection. His presence brings the assurance we need to sleep soundly and to live purposefully.

Whatever time of the day it is, allow him to be your light and your salvation. Not only will he dispel the darkness that so easily engulfs our imaginations, but he is a place of safety—a fortress to those who trust Him.

Especially in dark moments.

Tell him what’s on your mind. Give it to him—he’s going to be up all night anyway.

Then rest well. He’s got it covered.

Bill Herried is lead pastor at CenterPoint Christian Fellowship in Tacoma, Washington. He has an undergraduate degree from the University of Washington in Seattle, and Master of Divinity from Corban University in Salem, Oregon. He is married to the most extraordinary woman on the planet. Together they have 3 adult children and 4 grandchildren, and he loves a good biryani. Bill invites you to learn more on Your Daily Encouragement

Featured Image by Daniel Andrade on Unsplash