Walking in the light is an expression used by the prophets and writers of old to convey the message of a life pleasing the Lord of heaven and earth. The above verse quoted from today's reading aptly stands in the middle of two themes. From verses 1-4 it describes about the reign of God's kingdom among the nations and from verses 6-22, we have the imminent judgment spoken of against the wickedness of the people. Hence if we relate both through this verse, we see the emphasis is that we are ought to walk in the light of God due to the coming judgment. This was a grand theme for the preachers of the old. Up to 18th century the Christian preachers preached a general theme, 'Sinners in the hand of an angry God.'

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Throughout the book of Isaiah, we see this pattern. But it is interesting to note that there are other areas where the basis on which the believer is called to walk in light is the love and mercy of God. Weighing all the options, we see that, one way or other they are an incentive to walk in light. On one side there is the love and mercy of God and on the other side we have the just God who will punish the sinners. Unless these both are in a balanced state, we will not be walking straight. The doctrine of righteousness of God and love of God are the balancing factors for us to walk upright according to the light given through the illumination of His word. So let us be clear about this aspect from the beginning of our walk with the Lord.

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This is the balance mentioned by Apostle Paul when he wrote in Romans 6:1-2[NRSV] “What then are we to say? Should we continue in sin in order that grace may abound?  By no means! How can we who died to sin go on living in it?" The verse we are studying itself sets both the tones very clear. A loving tenderness and warning. Both are there to keep us safe from any erroneous presumptions.  

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What does it mean by walking in the light?

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We need to qualify the word 'light' by adding 'light of salvation.' This will make things more clear. We who were once darkness were called to the saving grace through the gospel. Now we have to walk in the newness of life we have received from God. Sin darkens our state but obedience to God's law, illuminates us and our ways. Or in other words, it sets our pattern to live righteously and pleasing to God. This is done through the illumination of the Word of God to our souls by our beloved Holy Spirit. Hence our day should start by sitting at the feet of God who will illuminate our souls to walk in the light of His word. By serious meditation and prayer, we will be able to walk in the light. 1 John 1:6&7 says: “If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.”  

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Once we walk in the light then we will become a light to the dark world.  So let us walk in obedience to the word of God and hence walk in light!

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Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, I submit myself to walk in light, please give me the illumination required from Your Word through Your Spirit. In Jesus name. Amen.