After I graduated from seminary, I couldn’t find a full-time position at a church (that’s another story), so I taught at a public school during the week and preached at a small church in Atlanta, Texas on Sundays. The original plan was to make the three-hour trip from Dallas on Friday evenings, do pastoral work on Saturdays, preach on Sundays, and then return to Dallas. But Lori was pregnant with our first child, and the weekend trips became more and more difficult and tiring. When Lori could not make the trip, I often left very early on Sunday mornings to arrive in time for the services.

On those early morning drives to Atlanta, Texas, I experienced many sunrises; each time, I was moved by the beauty. The dark would turn to dawn as the sun began to reveal itself. Then, the darkness would gradually give way to the sun shining “brighter and brighter until full day.” I think of those particular sunrises every time I read this passage.

Proverbs 4:18-19
But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day. The way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know over what they stumble.

When we belong to God and have been declared righteous by our trust in the finished work of Christ, he directs our paths. Sometimes, the paths may not be fully illuminated at first. The way may seem confusing. Fear covers the trail like dense fog. Disappointment makes parts of the path hard to maneuver. The truth is, a challenging route is not uncommon for those committed to a life of faith. But as we trustingly take one step, then another, God begins to supply the light. Gradually, the once confusing way becomes clear; the once dark walkway is bright. Let’s read the first part of our passage again and embrace the promise.

Proverbs 4:18
But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day.

Father, some are reading this today who have a big decision to make, but the way is dark. They are confused and disheartened. Please speak to them clearly as they seek you. As they enter the path of your choosing, illuminate it and give them the confidence that comes when the righteous follow hard after you.
In Christ’s name.
Amen.