"THE LORD IS MY LIGHT AND MY SALVATION." So testifies David, the man after God's own heart, and all who love the Lord. The presence of God and the light of His countenance make the Christian's day. His absence becomes our night, a figure often employed to describe our afflictions: losses, sickness, poverty, old age, death: these constitute a very gloomy night. They are dark, cold, and trying. But in the gloomiest night the Lord makes us happy; His very presence makes us sing. "He giveth songs in the night." He cheers the heart by the light of His countenance. He excites our praise, causes us to sing to the wonder of many. So did Paul and Silas in the Philippian prison, and so did many martyrs in their dungeons. Many have sung for joy in poverty, in sickness, and in death. Christian, thy God can make thee joyful in the gloomiest of circumstances, and give thee songs to brighten the darkest night. Walk close to Him, sing to His praise; His presence will drive out every gloom, and usher in heavenly joy, peace, and good cheer. Our God loves to see His people happy and to hear them sing the songs of Zion. Be a singing, not a sinning, Christian.

For Meditation:
Thou Giver of songs in the night,
Of joy to cheer the darkest day:
Cheer me with the joy of Thy light,
Thy smile along a dreary way.