soul journey 
Introduction
There are seasons in life when darkness seems to cling to our hearts—times filled with self-pity, denial, blame, hatred, or a self-righteous attitude that quietly poisons the soul. These emotions may feel justified in the moment, but they only pull us deeper into isolation and unrest.
But God never intended for us to stay in the dark. He offers a radiant, healing light—a way out of that place and into a life filled with peace, joy, and freedom.
“But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin.” — 1 John 1:7
This article is an invitation—a call to step out of the shadows and into the illuminating, life-giving light of God.
Steps to Step Out of Darkness and into God’s Light
1. Recognize the Darkness for What It Is
We must be honest with ourselves about where we are. Self-pity can feel comforting, denial can feel safe, and blame can deflect pain—but these are shadows. They keep us from growth and healing.
The first step is recognizing: This is not where I belong.
“When Jesus spoke again to the people, He 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
Jesus didn’t say, “Try harder” — He said, follow Me. Which means we turn toward Him, even when we feel ashamed, tired, or lost.
2. Let Go of Pride and Embrace Humility
Self-righteousness creates walls. It tells us we don’t need help, or that others are worse. But light enters through humility. When we say, “God, I’m struggling and I can’t fix it alone,” we give Him room to move.
“He has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of His righteousness.” — Isaiah 61:10
We don’t have to stay trapped in our own justifications. God offers us His righteousness—a gift we didn’t earn but are freely given when we surrender.
3. Forgive—Even If It Feels Impossible
Hatred and blame keep us chained. We might think holding on protects us, but in truth, it prevents healing. Forgiveness is not always about saying, “What happened was okay.” It’s saying, “I choose not to carry this weight anymore.”
Forgiveness opens the door to peace. And through God’s strength, even what seems unforgivable can be released.
4. Speak Light Over Yourself Daily
God’s Word is powerful. When you feel discouraged, speak truth:
- “I am not forsaken”
- “I am loved and seen”
- “I am being renewed day by day”
- “I am walking toward the light, one step at a time”
Reading Scripture daily—especially verses like John 8:12 and 1 John 1:7—grounds you in light and helps replace lies with truth.
5. Surround Yourself with Light-Bearing People
Isolation deepens darkness. Find a community of people who walk in God’s light—friends who speak truth in love, encourage you, and help you stay focused on growth.
Fellowship matters. Even one person who reminds you who you are in Christ can help you shift your mindset and direction.
Final Thought: There Is Always a Way Back
Even if you’ve been in a dark place for a long time, the light is still available to you. God is not waiting to condemn you—He is waiting to embrace you. The moment you turn toward Him, He meets you with grace, not shame.
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5
You don’t have to be perfect to begin. Just start by saying: God, I’m ready to leave the dark behind.
And then, one day at a time, keep walking toward the light.
Beautiful Kay! Thank you for this article. It goes right along with our Ladies Bible study in Wyoming.
So glad to hear that! Thank you.