Keeping the Wild Things Away

Starry skies notwithstanding, night is night and it’s inherently more difficult to see no matter where you are. Nighttime in the wilderness has the added feature of those pesky nocturnal animals stirring about and making noises that can send our imaginations soaring.

Night can be a tough time in the wilderness.

My guess is that the wilderness we’re currently in has disrupted more than a few sleep patterns. During the day it’s easier to stay engaged and keep the lid on a lot of things but as we lie in our beds at night, the lid can come off and a whole host of things start spilling out.

In the wilderness, it can be helpful to keep a fire going at night. It provides light, heat (if you need it) and keeps the wild things away. That’s exactly what God did when His people were traveling through the wilderness. He didn’t just provide light—He was their light! Early on in the Exodus account, God is in front of Israel as a pillar of fire at night but once the tabernacle was completed, God’s light (over the tabernacle) emanated from the midst of them (Numbers).

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Wherever we journey, or in our present case, don’t go, the light of the Lord is with us. And that’s the thing to remember about anxieties, fears and worries—they thrive in darkness but are dispelled by the light.

The next time darkness is getting the best of you, remember His light and keep the wild things away.

In peace I will lie down and sleep, for You alone Lord, make me dwell in safety. (Psalm 4:8)

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