"Unless we form the habit of going to the Bible in bright moments as well as in trouble, we cannot fully respond to its consolations because we lack equilibrium between light and darkness"

Helen Keller’s observation draws attention to the way many people approach spiritual practices, particularly reading the Bible, only when they’re facing hardships or distress. She suggests that consolation and comfort drawn from scripture become limited if one’s relationship with sacred texts is reserved solely for times of trouble. Approaching the Bible exclusively for solace during dark moments can create an imbalance, an uneven spiritual rhythm where darkness weighs more than light.

Keller argues for a habit: a conscious, regular turning to the Bible both in moments of happiness and struggle. Integrating scripture into life’s bright periods, when the heart is unburdened and spirits are high, cultivates familiarity with its messages beyond a desperate search for relief. It fosters a deeper connection, transforming reading into a daily nourishment rather than a last resort. By seeking guidance and wisdom during joyful, peaceful times, a person builds spiritual resilience and perspective. The teachings and comforts of the Bible no longer become foreign words in crisis, but well-known friends reinforced by repeated, voluntary engagement.

Equilibrium arises from embracing both the “light” and “darkness” of life with the same openness to scripture. When someone already honors the Bible in happiness, its assurances and promises have a pre-established presence in their inner world. Then, in times of trial, the soul naturally recalls familiar consolations, drawing on stored strength rather than scrambling for unfamiliar support. The “habit” Keller describes is transformative: it allows the wisdom of scripture to permeate all aspects of lived experience, enhancing gratitude, humility, and trust during prosperity, and offering genuine comfort during adversity. In neglecting scripture in “bright moments,” a person risks losing half its capacity for impact, the ability to anchor them in both joy and sorrow, and thus misses the full blessings it offers.