What does "it was dark" symbolize in our spiritual journey? The Verse in Focus “ They got into a boat and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was already dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them.” – John 6:17 Why the Spirit Highlights the Darkness • The Holy Spirit never wastes words; the detail “it was dark” signals more than a time of day. • Scripture often uses physical darkness to mirror spiritual realities (John 3:19; Psalm 82:5). • Here, darkness frames a moment when the disciples feel Jesus’ absence and face rising danger (John 6:18). Symbolic Layers for Our Journey • Absence of visible guidance – Without light, course-correction is impossible. – Likewise, when we cannot sense Christ’s leading, our next step feels uncertain (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Heightened vulnerability – Darkness conceals unseen threats on the water. – In spiritual terms, trials, temptations, or doubt often intensify when Christ seems silent (1 Peter 5:8). • Testing of faith – Jesus purposely allows the disciples to launch without Him (Mark 6:45). – Seasons of darkness prove whether we live by sight or by trust (2 Corinthians 5:7). • Prelude to revelation – Dawn follows night; Christ walks on the sea and calms the storm (John 6:19-21). – God frequently lets darkness deepen so His light appears unmistakable (Isaiah 60:2). Other Passages Echoing the Theme • Exodus 10:22-23 – Thick darkness in Egypt highlights Israel’s distinct place in God’s plan. • Psalm 139:11-12 – “Even the darkness is not dark to You.” • John 1:5 – “The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” • Luke 23:44-46 – Midday darkness at the cross signals sin’s weight and the Light about to break through resurrection. How to Walk When It’s Dark 1. Remember past deliverances (Deuteronomy 8:2). 2. Hold fast to the last clear word from Scripture (Psalm 119:105). 3. Refuse to interpret God’s heart by current circumstances (Romans 8:28, 38-39). 4. Wait in expectancy; Jesus “comes at the fourth watch” (Matthew 14:25). 5. Encourage fellow travelers; shared faith shines brighter than isolated candles (Hebrews 10:24-25). Takeaway “It was dark” marks neither abandonment nor defeat; it is the backdrop against which Christ’s light, power, and presence become unmistakably glorious in every believer’s voyage. |
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