Growing In the Dark

Each of us in our Christian walk will experience dark seasons. The word dark has a negative connotation that conjures up discouraging thoughts. Taking this into consideration, is it possible for anything good to result from the dark times you experience? Furthermore, is it even possible to grow in the dark? God knows the means necessary to get you to His appointed destination for your life. He often uses dark times as a catalyst to build your faith and promote spiritual growth and development.

The process is akin to planting a seed. The seed is buried in the dark environment of the soil. Amazingly the pressure exerted on the seed by its harsh environment doesn’t destroy it. Rather, it stimulates the seed’s growth process. It enters the ground looking one way but comes out looking completely different. Joseph went through a dark season and his transformation was so great his brothers didn’t recognize him (Genesis 42:8).

Before digital photography, film had to be developed in a darkroom. If the film was exposed to light too soon, the image on the film was ruined. God uses the dark to develop you into the image He has of you etched in the palm of His hand (Isaiah 49:16). It’s a time when you develop strong roots in Christ that enable you to withstand the rigors of upward growth.

Perhaps your dark season is sickness, unemployment, emotional distress, marriage difficulties, relationship issues, financial struggles, loneliness, insecurity or uncertainty. If you’re not careful, you’ll think the dark is punishment. However, darkness is the vehicle God uses to grow your faith and trust in Him. God’s purpose for your life supersedes every plot of the enemy. He’s preserving you for the joy that comes in the morning. Purpose ensures the darkness won’t last forever (Romans 8:28). Like it or not, you need a dark place for your faith to grow. A faith that has not been tested can’t be trusted.

Although you may be going through a dark season, rest assured God won’t abandon you. He’s committed to perfecting the image of Christ in you. Worship will keep you while you wait. God is intent on growing you in the dark so you won’t come out the same way you went in. You’re coming out better than ever before. You’re coming out wiser. You’re coming out stronger. You’re coming out to win. You’re coming out!

Until next time…Be blessed!

Rev. Cynthia Jackson
Rhema Inspirations

About Rev. Cynthia Jackson

Rev. Cynthia Jackson is the administrator of the Rhema4U Blog and Innovations Ministries Director. Rev. Jackson is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was licensed and ordained under the tutelage of Bishop David G. Evans. She is an associate minister at Bethany Baptist Church located in Lindenwold, New Jersey. Rev. Jackson founded Innovations Ministries in 2001. Innovations Ministries provides dynamic and innovative programs and services for individuals and families dealing with various health-related issues. She is a gifted teacher, preacher, conference speaker and writer. God has anointed Rev. Jackson to be a spiritual midwife with a passion to empower others to birth God's vision for their lives. Rev. Jackson holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Organizational Management from Eastern University, a Master of Science Degree in Health Administration from Saint Joseph's University and a Master of Science Degree in Christian Counseling from Cairn University.