God Moves in the Darkness
Title: “God Moves in the Darkness”
Introduction:
Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ. Today, we will explore a foundational passage from Scripture—Genesis 1:1-3—and focus on an often overlooked but profoundly comforting truth: God moves in the darkness.
When we read Genesis 1:1-3, we encounter the beginning of everything—“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” But what happens immediately after? Verse 2 describes the earth as “without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep.” Yet, within this darkness, God’s Spirit is present, and His voice speaks life.
Today, I want us to meditate on how God’s movement in the darkness offers hope and reassurance for us in our own times of darkness, confusion, and despair.
Part 1: The Reality of Darkness in Creation and in Our Lives
Genesis 1:1-2 states:
“In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep.”
In these opening verses, the darkness symbolizes chaos, emptiness, and the unknown. It’s the primordial state before God brings light and order. But notice, darkness is present before God’s creative act.
Application:
In our lives, darkness often manifests as pain, confusion, loss, or uncertainty. We may feel like we are in a state of chaos, wondering if there’s any hope, or if things will ever be made right.
Supporting Scripture:
Psalm 23:4**: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me.”
John 1:5**: “The light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.”
These verses remind us that darkness is a universal experience, but it is never the end of the story because God is present even in the darkest moments.
Part 2: God’s Spirit Moves in the Darkness
Genesis 1:2 continues:
“And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.”
This is a powerful statement. The Spirit of God is present, active, and moving before the light is created. The Hebrew word translated as “moved” can also mean “hovered” or “brooded,” indicating a loving, nurturing presence.
Implication:
Even when everything seems dark and formless, God’s Spirit is actively involved. He is not absent or indifferent to our darkness. Instead, He is working behind the scenes, preparing, shaping, and bringing life.
Supporting Scripture:
Isaiah 45:7**: “I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things.”
Psalm 139:12**: “Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day.”
God’s power is not limited by darkness—He is sovereign over it.
Part 3: God Speaks Light into Darkness
Genesis 1:3 states:
“And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.”
The turning point! God’s spoken word brings light into the darkness. This reveals that God’s power is expressed through His word—His creative authority.
Relevance:
In our darkest times, God’s word remains powerful. His promises, His presence, and His truth can bring light into any situation.
Supporting Scripture:
John 1:1-5**: “In the beginning was the Word… In him was life; and the life was the light of men.”
Psalm 119:105**: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
When we are in darkness, God’s word illuminates our path, dispels confusion, and restores hope.
Part 4: The Light of Christ in Our Lives Today
While Genesis 1 focuses on the beginning of creation, it also points us forward to Christ, the Light of the world.
John 8:12:
“Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”
Application:
The darkness in our lives can be transformed by the light of Christ.
When we face personal chaos, grief, or spiritual darkness, we are invited to turn to Jesus, the true Light who dispels all darkness.
Supporting Scripture:
2 Corinthians 4:6**: “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”
Revelation 21:23**: “And the city hath no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.”
Part 5: Practical Application—God’s Promise in Our Darkness
In our personal lives:
When you are in a season of darkness, remember that God is present. His Spirit is moving, brooding over your circumstances.
His word can bring light and clarity. Seek His promises.
Trust that God’s creative power can bring new beginnings out of chaos.
In our communities and world:
The darkness of violence, injustice, and despair can be challenged by the light of Christ flowing through His people.
We are called to be light in the darkness, shining hope and love into our neighborhoods and nations.
Supporting Scripture:
Matthew 5:14-16**: “Ye are the light of the world… Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
Conclusion: Embrace the Movement of God in Darkness
Brothers and sisters, Genesis 1:1-3 reminds us that God is not deterred by darkness. His Spirit moves over the chaotic waters, and His voice speaks light into the darkness. The same God who created the universe out of darkness is at work in our lives today.
Final encouragement:
Do not fear the darkness. Instead, trust that God is present within it.
He is working behind the scenes, brooding in love, preparing to bring His light into your situation.
Look forward with hope, knowing that no darkness can overcome the light of Christ.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your presence in our darkest moments. Thank You for Your Spirit, who moves over the chaos, and for Your Word, which brings light and life. Help us to trust in Your creative power and to be instruments of Your light in a world darkened by sin and despair. May we always remember that in You, darkness is never the end, but a prelude to Your glorious light. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
May God bless you and fill your hearts with His light.