The Prayerful Pause - July 16

When our family was on vacation in North Carolina last month, we enjoyed visiting several of the lighthouses along the Outer Banks. David and Jyoti enjoyed climbing a few of them. We loved walking the grounds and soaking in the beauty, history, and symbolism.

In one lighthouse gift shop, a small banner caught my eye. It was titled “Lighthouse Wisdom,” and it offered nine simple truths for disciples of Jesus. In sharing these nine points of “Lighthouse Wisdom,” I’ve also included a brief reflection and some Scripture to accompany each one. May God use this “Lighthouse Wisdom” to speak to us this week.

Lighthouse Wisdom

1.    Stand Tall: Like a lighthouse, we stand tall in the truth of who God created us to be—God’s beloved children. We are fearfully and wonderfully made with unique gifts and purpose.

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14 

2.    Light the Way for Others: Just as a lighthouse reflects light to those around it, we too reflect light to those around us. Only the light we share is the very light of Christ. Whether through big moments or quiet acts of service, our lives can help others see God more clearly. 

“You are the light of the world... let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14–16

3.    Enjoy the View: The view from the top of the lighthouse offers both beauty and perspective. Let us pause to worship, breathe deeply, and notice God’s goodness in the world around us. 

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Psalm 19:1

4.    Take Life One Step at a Time: Climbing a lighthouse takes considerable time and patience. Life’s journey doesn’t have to be rushed. God gives grace for each step, each day, and each challenge.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5–6

5.    Stand Firm: Each day, may we anchor ourselves in Christ. Like a lighthouse built on rock, our hope in Jesus keeps us steady and secure no matter what comes our way.

 “Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” Matthew 7:24

6.    Be a Beacon of Hope: Lighthouses serve as a beacon of hope to those seeking a way forward. We can be a beacon of hope for those who have lost their way. Hope doesn’t ignore hardship—it trusts that God is still working. Even in the darkness, our lives can point others toward the light of Christ.

 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope…” Romans 15:13

7.    Stay Calm Through the Storm: Lighthouses shine even through storms. So can we, by trusting Jesus—our Prince of Peace—when life feels overwhelming.

 “He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, 'Quiet! Be still!' Then the wind died down, and it was completely calm." Mark 4:3

8.    Let Our Light Shine: Like a lighthouse, may we let our light shine. We are not the source of the light, but we reflect the Son. Let our joy, kindness, and faith point others to God’s grace. 

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light” Ephesians 5:8

Closing Prayer
Lord, make us lighthouses in a dark world.
Help us to stand tall, shine brightly, and remain anchored in you.
May our lives point others to your grace,
and may we always reflect your light—even in the storm.
In Christ’s Name we Pray, Amen.