#soap # Isaiah 17 ## Title: Only in Darkness is the Light Most Visible ## Scripture: (Isaiah 17:7) “At that time men will trust in their Creator; they will depend on the Holy One of Israel.” (NET) ## Observation: Have you ever turned on a flashlight outside in the middle of the day? It’s a waste of time. Since it’s bright all around, you cannot tell the flashlight is on unless you look right at it. However, do the same thing at night. It will light up your surroundings. Unfortunately, when things are going well, we do not always notice what the Lord is doing and we minimize His involvement in our lives. But, when darkness comes, we can see what He is doing more clearly. The only way to see the strength of God is to come to the end of our own. In this passage, the nation of Israel will see the destruction of their nation because of their sins. But, when they do and see the darkness they have made, they will be able to see God more clearly and turn to Him. This means we can be thankful for bad times. We are not thankful for what they do, but we can be thankful for Who they reveal. ## Application: When times get dark, look for the “light” of the Lord. ## Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for shining through any darkness.