I came across an interesting and powerful Scripture the other day.
Usually in the Bible, light is used as a metaphor for God's revelation of Himself and His ways, but in this Scripture the imagery is reversed. Instead, light here represents mankind's attempt to find his own path (There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12) outside of God's will, and darkness represents humbly walking in trusting obedience to God's will. In other words, rely on God to light your way, and don't try to light your own way. God's will is clearly laid out in His Word, the Bible, and He gives His Holy Spirit to His children!
I'm not sure if the reference to the firebrands is a reference to an ancient pagan ritual, or just an ancient metaphor lost to time, but the theme and meaning is clear nevertheless.
The vast majority of the world corresponds to verse 11, but may we correspond to verse 10...
10 Who is among you that fears the Lord,
That obeys the voice of His servant,
That walks in darkness and has no light?
Let him trust in the name of the Lord and rely on his God.
11 Behold, all you who kindle a fire,
Who encircle yourselves with firebrands,
Walk in the light of your fire
And among the brands you have set ablaze.
This you will have from My hand:
You will lie down in torment.
Isaiah 50:10-11
