A Prayer to Be a Witness Amid the Shadows - Your Daily Prayer - October 14

A Prayer to Be a Witness Amid the Shadows 
By: Sophia Bricker

Bible Reading:
“Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.” - 1 Peter 2:12, NLT

Listen and Read Below:

I remember the shock and sorrow I felt when I learned the news about flooding due to Hurricane Helene. Much of the Southeast was affected, and many people lost their lives. Stories of homes being washed away and the loss of loved ones brought heartache and a reminder of the deep brokenness in the world. Many current events have left the same devastation in their wake, whether from shootings or other acts of violence. Tragedy can strike anytime and anywhere, and no one is immune to its attack.    

And while the tales of destruction and death should be acknowledged and honored, there were other stories, too. After the 2024 floods due to the hurricane, there was news of groups traveling to the affected areas to bring water, food, and clothing. Ministries and church groups utilized their resources to serve the families and individuals who were affected, bringing hope in the devastation. The presence of followers of Jesus serving and loving those who were suffering shone a light that could not be dimmed.

Scripture tells us that we are like lamps meant to provide light in the darkness. No one would place a bowl over a lamp or try to obscure a light fixture if they were trying to see during the night. No, they would let the lamp shine brightly. So, too, are we intended to do good deeds and shine before others (Matthew 5:16).  

The verse from 1 Peter echoes Jesus’ words since we are told that our righteous deeds and behavior will eventually lead people to glorify the Lord. How we live matters because others are watching. They notice when we prioritize Jesus and when we live in obedience to Him. Even when others insult or mock us for our devotion to Christ and our odd behavior in choosing to love our enemies, our actions will continue to testify to them about the truth of our Savior. We serve as witnesses by our words and deeds.   

Living as lights before others, though, is not easy. Like those workers who entered the areas affected by flooding, continuing to do good requires sacrifice and intentionality. We must be willing to get involved with the messy parts of people’s lives, getting our hands dirty as we plant hope and love.  

At times, we may even be exposed to hazards on the job. As our Lord told us, people may hate us for what we work for and the One we serve (John 15:18-21). However, if we hold onto the blessings promised to us, focusing our eyes on Christ, we will be able to continue to illuminate the shadows of our broken world (Matthew 5:11-12). By His power, we can bless rather than curse. Forgive instead of holding a grudge. Serve rather than be served. And love even when it’s hard.          

The light we shine into the darkness is not so that others can focus on and praise us. We do good because that is what we are made to do as new creations in Christ, and it is an extension of our love for Him. Ultimately, every righteous act points to the Lord who will receive honor and praise on the day of His coming: “at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:10-11, NIV).  

The best way to fight the shadows is to bring in light.   

Let’s Pray: 

Lord of all,

You know more than anyone about the brokenness in this world. The wars, violence, natural disasters, death, and heartache––You see it all. And as You demonstrated during the time of the flood in Genesis, You despair of the wickedness that exists on earth. Even now, Your heart breaks for the shadow over life, the shadow You will one day destroy. That is why You sent Your Son to die for us and give us the gift of eternal life. When tragedy strikes, God, help me to trust in You and serve as a light to others. May the daily rhythms of my life train me to walk in Your ways and behave honorably toward others so that they may see Your love through my actions. I want my life to be a witness that leads others to glorify You.

In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.    

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/AlexLinch 

Sophia Bricker is a writer. Her mission is to help others grow in their relationship with Jesus through thoughtful articles, devotionals, and stories. She completed a BA and MA in Christian ministry which included extensive study of the Bible and theology, as well as an MFA in creative writing. You can read her thoughts about literature and faith at The Cross, a Pen, and a Page Substack, or visit the discipleship-based site Cultivate, where she writes with her sister.  

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