“Evil is like a shadow – it has no real substance of its own, it is simply a lack of light. You cannot cause a shadow to disappear by trying to fight it, stamp on it, by railing against it, or any other form of emotional or physical resistance. In order to cause a shadow to disappear, you must shine light on it.” -Shakti Gawain, teacher and author (b. 1948)

This morning I was all set to bore you with this book I just finished, but then I read the above quote in one of my devotions. Have I said enough how I love word pictures? It is part of the curse of being in the graphics-oriented field. But that’s another story.

What I like about Gawain’s words is the reliance on the Light as an instrument. He doesn’t use the big L like I do on that, but reading his words created such a strong visual for me that in my head I began to recall so many references from His Word about not only His being the light, but the need for each of us to be the light as well. One of my favorites is Matthew 5:15-16.

However, I do disagree with his assertion that evil has no substance. The first thing I thought of was Ephesians 6:12:

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Though His Word is clear that we are not fighting against flesh and blood substance, it is definitely real! Whoa! When I was on BibleGateway.com just now getting the exact wording on wording from Ephesians, I also saw these words from Romans 13:12, “So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the ARMOR OF LIGHT.”

Today, in some way, may you shine your light on shadow. Whether you are a flashlight that is focused on one area, or a lamp that cast light over a wider area, be a light. Be His Light.