A Light in the Dark Months

As the days grow shorter and the shadows stretch longer, it’s easy to feel a shift—physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. The golden hues of October gradually give way to the gray tones of November. The sun clocks out earlier. Energy dips. Moods swing. Motivation lags.

But for those rooted in truth, this season isn’t a descent into darkness. It’s an invitation to shine brighter to be a light in the darker months.

Shining My Inner Light Everywhere isn’t a summer-only calling. It’s a lifelong posture. And maybe, just maybe, it’s even more needed when light feels scarce.

The Seasonal Slump Is Real—But It’s Not the Whole Story

Fall and winter bring beauty, but they also bring challenge. You may feel more tired, more withdrawn. With less daylight, you may not want to venture outside as much or even get in your car to leave your home for a bit. You’re not alone. Studies show that many people experience a drop in serotonin and vitamin D during the colder, darker months.

But God’s light doesn’t fade with the sun. His presence doesn’t hibernate. And His promises never dim.

Psalm 139:11–12 assures us:

“If I say, ‘Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,’ even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.”

Let that sink in. Even when everything around you grows dim, God sees clearly and shines steadily.

One Candle Lit the Whole Room

A few years ago, I went on a silent retreat just as October turned to November. The cabin was rustic, with no lights controlled by a switch or outlet, just kerosene lamps and candles. One night, the power went out completely—even the backup generator failed.

At first, I admit to bit of nervousness. The darkness was thick and unfamiliar. But then I remembered the small battery-powered tea light I had packed in my bag. So, I turned it on.

The imitation flame was tiny, but surprisingly, it was enough. My eyes soon adjusted, and that single flicker of light illuminated the whole room. Not fully, but enough to calm my fears, guide my steps to the kerosene lamp, and restore peace. From there, I was able to get help.

That’s what your light can do in the darker months.

How to Shine When Life Feels Dim

Dark seasons, whether they’re literal or metaphorical, don’t require you to be radiant. They just ask you to show up. Here are a few ways to do that:

1. Anchor in the Word

Start or end your day with Scripture. Let God’s promises re-center you. Even five minutes in the Word can ignite something within.

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” —Psalm 119:105

2. Light a Literal Candle

Sometimes, physical light helps our hearts catch up. Light a candle while you pray or journal. Let it be a visual reminder that God’s presence dwells within you.

3. Speak Light into Others

Write a note. Send a text. Smile at the store clerk. Darkness often makes people feel unseen, but your kindness reminds them they’re not forgotten.

4. Stay in Rhythm

Keep a steady schedule of R.E.S.T., W.O.R.S.H.I.P., fellowship, and service. Rhythms keep us rooted when emotions fluctuate and rattle our foundation.

5. Choose Gratitude on Purpose

Gratitude isn’t a feeling. It’s a decision. Write down three things you’re thankful for each morning or evening. It shifts your perspective and rekindles joy.

Jesus, the Light That Never Flickers

John 1:5 says:

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

The same light that came into the world at creation, the same light that broke through the tomb, is the light that lives in you.

Even when you don’t feel it. Even when it’s cold, cloudy, or quiet. Christ in you is steady, sure, and unfailing. Let Christ shine through your S.M.I.L.E. and give hope to others, so they have a reason to look forward to the glory to come.

Your Smile Is a Beacon

You don’t need to fix the season. And you definitely don’t need to fake the sunshine. You just need to be faithful to:

• Pause.
• Pray.
• Open your heart
• Let your light be shared.

That might mean saying yes to a conversation you’d rather avoid. It might mean showing up for someone else even when you feel low. It might mean offering worship through whispered prayers or tired hands.

Whatever it looks like, keep shining.

Shine On

The darker the night, the more powerful the glow.

This fall and winter, as the leaves fade and the skies dim, remember: you carry the light. Smile and reflect the hope of Jesus. You are a vessel of joy, peace, and promise, even in the cold.

And sometimes, a smile is all it takes to pierce the gloom.