In the Doctrine and Covenants 50:24, we learn that “God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day.”
The idea of living a life full of light is a beautiful one. It may also seem unattainable when so much darkness exists around us. How can we find and grow God’s light in dark times? Here are three ideas.
Express Gratitude
President Thomas S. Monson taught us that “sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings, but it also unlocks the doors of heaven and helps us feel God’s love.” When we strive to be grateful and look for the way God is working in our life, we keep a window open for the light to shine through.
Sometimes, we feel like being grateful dismisses our pain or other negative feelings. We need to remember we can praise God and honor our pain simultaneously. Try to set aside a specific time to express gratitude prayer and a specific time to discuss your pain and fears.
Disconnect from Distractions
We live in a world full of distractions! From our busy schedules to the amount of time we spend on technology, it can be hard to find light when we’re filling up every moment of every day. We often do this because of immediate gratification…or immediate numbness. We have so much going on, we want to turn off what we’re feeling.
In order to receive God’s light, our hearts and minds have to be open and receptive. We can’t do that if we’re always distracted. We need to make time for the still, small voice.
Strive to Serve Others
There is no quicker way to add light to your life than by bringing light to someone else. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf said, “As we lose ourselves in the service of others, we discover our own lives and our own happiness.”
We should never push ourselves too far and neglect our own needs, but there’s likely time in all of our lives to think of someone else. Whether we complete our ministering assignments, seek to bring more harmony to our homes, or reach out to a stranger, we can make the world shine with goodness.
What are some ways you bring light to your life in dark times?
Aleah is a graduate of Southern Virginia University, where she studied English, Creative Writing, and Dance. She now works full time as a marketing and product manager, writer, and editor. She currently hosts the podcast “Single to the Glory” about singlehood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Aleah served a mission in California and loves baking, Lang Leav poetry, Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, and Bollywood movies.
