Sunshine & Growth

Is it just me, or does the sun shine brighter in the spring? Does the sky seem bluer and the clouds puffier, or do we just see things differently?

Science tells us that sunlight stimulates serotonin, provides vitamin D, and regulates our natural sleep-wake cycle. Simply put, it affects our mood for the better. Sunshine makes us happier and more productive.

This makes me wonder, how can I increase sunlight in my spiritual self? I finished my reading of Romans this morning and Paul gave me some pointers.

• Be alert. “Watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way… Keep away from them” (16:17). 

I will watch for thoughts and instigators that cast shadows on my love for others.

• “Be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil” (16:19).

I will exercise discernment in what I absorb, eager to see, read, and watch what is good and resist glorification of evil—that which brings light, not darkness.

• Be strong. God “is able to establish you” through faith in Him (16:25).

Establish is such a strong word! I don’t want to be washed away by storms—I want to be deep-rooted in faith, established, and growing in the light of God’s Word.

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. 
Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness,
but will have the light of life.” John 8:12