Jathan S. Pfeifle’s book Shine Your Light: Poems about Jesus, Light, Ships, and the Sea is a collection of poems that offer comfort and hope. The poems remind readers that even in life’s most challenging moments, faith in Jesus provides strength. Pfeifle compares faith to a guiding light through simple but powerful words, helping people find peace in difficult times. His poetry encourages readers to trust God’s love and lean on Him when life feels overwhelming.
Holding onto Faith in Hard Times
Life is full of ups and downs. Some days are joyful and easy, while others are full of struggles. When problems arise, it can be hard to see a way forward. Fear and doubt creep in, making everything feel heavy.
Pfeifle’s poetry reminds readers that faith is a steady anchor, keeping them safe when the waves of life get rough. Just as a ship needs an anchor to stay in place during a storm, people need faith to stay strong when troubles come.
Though windswept, worn, and battered,
The ship left, not the shoreline.
These words show that faith keeps us from drifting away no matter how hard the storm may be. Instead of being tossed around by fear and worry, trust in God brings stability. It helps people stand firm, knowing God is always watching over them.
Trusting God’s Plan
Many times, people face challenges that don’t seem to make sense. They may feel lost, or wonder why things happen the way they do. It is easy to question if everything will be okay. But faith is about trusting God’s plan, even when the path is unclear.
The Father knows the way,
And He will see us through.
God sees the bigger picture. Even when life feels confusing, He is guiding each step. Sometimes, it takes time to understand why certain things happen. But looking back, people often realize that God was leading them in the right direction.
Trusting God’s plan does not mean life will be free from struggles. It means knowing He is always with us, helping us through every trial. As the sun rises after the darkest night, faith brings hope that better days are ahead.
Being a Light for Others
Faith is not just about personal strength but also about sharing hope with others. When people go through hard times, they need encouragement. A kind word, a listening ear, or a helping hand can make a big difference.
Pfeifle’s poems encourage readers to be a source of light in a world that often feels dark.
Be a lighthouse, shine your light,
Shine it in the dark of night.
A lighthouse does not hide its light—it shines brightly so others can find their way. In the same way, people of faith can offer love and kindness to those who are struggling. Even small actions, like offering a prayer or sharing a comforting word, can bring hope to someone in need.
Finding Strength in Prayer
Prayer is a powerful way to connect with God. It brings peace to a troubled heart and strengthens in moments of doubt. Talking to God, even in simple words, can bring comfort.
Many of Pfeifle’s poems highlight the importance of prayer.
Come; learn about His matchless love,
It’s the best thing you can do.
Prayer is not just about asking for help. It is also about listening, reflecting, and feeling God’s presence. Taking a moment each day to pray can make a big difference in how people face their challenges. It reminds them that they are never alone and that God is always there to guide them.
About the Author
Jathan S. Pfeifle was born and raised in California, where he still lives today. He has written poetry for over 30 years and enjoys writing about Scripture, nature, and history. He believes that all talent is a gift from God and should be shared to bring hope to others.
Pfeifle enjoys reading, gardening, helping at his church, and researching his family history in his free time. His greatest hope is that his poetry will encourage readers to draw closer to Jesus Christ. Through his words, he seeks to remind others of God’s endless love and the peace that comes from trusting in Him.
