Light Triumphs over Darkness

We all confront conflicts—some that can be resolved logically and others that are deeply emotional. In society, our opinions are shaped by personal emotions, biases, and perspectives, making each viewpoint unique. These emotionally charged differences can sometimes lead to extreme actions. Therefore, it is crucial to have a guiding code of conduct to reinforce our convictions. For many, this code is shaped by experience—learning from our own mistakes. Yet great wisdom lies in learning from the mistakes of others. Even Solomon, renowned for his profound wisdom, did not always learn from others’ errors or heed his own teachings.

As Christians, we are blessed to have the Bible as our personal guide. God gave us the Ten Commandments, and Jesus taught us the Greatest Commandment. Yet God also granted us grace and mercy, knowing that the gift of free will would lead us to make mistakes.

In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul seeks to restore his relationship with the church, encourage them in their faith, and clarify key aspects of Christian doctrine and practice. His personal transparency and emphasis on God’s strength in our weakness serve as a powerful reminder that Christian ministry is marked by humility, sacrifice, and reliance on God’s grace.

Christian ministry requires us to engage with differing opinions. Indeed, as Paul warns against idolatry, embracing and executing the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20) places us in positions of conflict, reaching out not only to non-believers but also to those lost in idolatry. In dealing with truly lost souls, Jesus teaches us to move on: “And if anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet” (Matthew 10:14). Through this teaching, Jesus encourages His followers not to dwell on rejection. By shaking off the dust, we leave behind bitterness and frustration, trusting that God is in control and that our responsibility is to share the message faithfully.

Paul reminds us that light cannot fellowship with darkness: “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14). Being unequally yoked—joined with someone who does not share our beliefs—is challenging, and many struggle to learn this lesson.

But remember: light triumphs over darkness.