Children of the Light
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” Ephesians 5:8 NIV
In his letter to the Ephesians Paul compares life in Christ as the difference between darkness and light, death and life.
He wrote earlier, “…you were dead in your transgressions and sins…But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ…” (Ephesians 2:1,4-5 NIV) Now he says those in Christ have moved from darkness, to light. The simple, yet high calling, is to “live as children of the light.”
In the following verses, he says living as the “children of the light” is reflected in our character:
“…for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness,righteousness and truth…” (Ephesians 5:9 NIV) Our character is to reflect the life of Christ within us.
Living as “children of the light” is reflected in our lifestyle:
“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11 NIV) The deeds and choices that were “natural” in the darkness, now are viewed for what they are, “fruitless” and void of any value. Paul’s focus in Ephesians is on the newness of life in Christ and its impact on our lifestyle. “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires…” (Ephesians 4:23 NIV)
Living as “children of the light” is reflected in our priorities:
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV) Our orientation in life changes. We “redeem the time.” In other words, our focus, our priority is to replace a fruitless, foolish life style that speaks of the darkness, with the intentional and purposeful living of those in the light.
Living as “children of the light” is reflected in source of strength and enjoyment:
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit…” (Ephesians 5:18 NIV) Drunkenness and the deeds of darkness drags an individual and others down. The life of the Spirit elevates and enhances our life and the life of others and exalts the Lord.
“…speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.“ (Ephesians 5:19,20 NIV)
Prayer for today…. Lord thank You for bringing us from death to life and from darkness to light. Transform our focus and purpose in a way that reflects the One who has given His all for us so we can live a new life a “Children of the Light.”