Photo by Mathieu Perrier on Unsplash
A moth is drawn to a flame, mistaking artificial light for the moon’s guiding glow. This phenomenon, called phototaxis, often leads moths into danger as they spiral toward sources that cannot truly guide them. In a world filled with countless distractions—voices promising fulfillment, wisdom that fades, and fleeting pleasures—we, too, can be drawn to false lights. The question is: how do we distinguish the light that leads to life from the glow that leads to destruction?
Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12 ESV)
Jesus spoke these words in the temple during the Feast of Tabernacles, where large lamps burned to symbolize God’s guidance in the wilderness. Yet He declared that He was the true light, not just for Israel but for the world. His light exposes deception and leads us into truth. But just as a moth can mistake a lamp for the moon, we can mistake good things—success, approval, even religion—for the ultimate light. Only Christ illuminates the path to life.
We often resist His light because it reveals what we’d rather keep hidden. Pride, fear, or comfort can keep us clinging to lesser lights. Yet Jesus invites us to step into His brilliance, where clarity and direction await.
Spiritual Move: Discernment. Seek Christ’s wisdom by testing what influences you. Is it leading you toward or away from Him? Journal Prompts: What “false lights” in your life compete for your attention? How can you practice following Christ’s light more intentionally this week?