Living In the Light
Opening Prayer
Take a few moments now to praise God for who he is and all that he means to you.
Read Ephesians 5:1-20
[1] Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children [2] and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. [3] But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. [4] Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. [5] For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person-such a person is an idolater-has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. [6] Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. [7] Therefore do not be partners with them. [8] For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light [9] (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) [10] and find out what pleases the Lord. [11] Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. [12] It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. [13] But everything exposed by the light becomes visible-and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. [14] This is why it is said: “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” [15] Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, [16] making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. [17] Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. [18] Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, [19] speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, [20] always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
With what imagery does Paul describe how we should live?There was a news story recently about a burglar who inadvertently knocked over a can of paint. Police caught him by following his paint-covered footsteps all the way to his home. He thought his deeds were unobserved, but the evidence was there for all to see. What would it be like if everything we did was visible? What if, when you went to work or to church, everyone knew exactly what you had done since they last saw you? This includes not only the outward things (got up, had breakfast, etc.), but everything: the things you’d said and thought, your attitudes to others. Paul’s message is that sin does, in fact, leave its mark. It disfigures the image of God in us. One day that disfigurement will be exposed and we shall be seen for what we are (13). God has given us the chance of a fresh start (8), however. We can step out of the shadows into the light and put behind us everything that goes with darkness (11). What would we look like if everything we did were visible? To God it is, and if that is frightening, we know that in Jesus change is possible.
Apply
What change(s) might you need to make today? Ask God for any help to make changes that you may need.
Closing prayer
Lord of Light, help me to live in the light and be pleasing to You in all that I do and say.
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