” . . . 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. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.” (Eph 5:3-4 NIV)
All around us — literally everywhere — people are following personal desires, ideas, and opinions. Many do so under the name of Christian. Some arrogantly claim they are ministering for Christ even when there are clear prohibitions in Scripture. In the early 1980s, a strip-dancer in Toronto, Ontario, Canada proclaimed that she had received Christ as Savior. That would have been well and good if she had stopped her dancing craft. She, however, claimed that she would continue to “strip for Jesus.”
Consider today’s text again. What does “not even a hint” mean to a Christian? What did Paul mean when he said, “these are improper for God’s holy people?” Should we take him serious when he writes, that “obscenity” and “foolish talk” and “coarse joking” are all “out of place?”
Now, do not be deceived, I am not more holy than anyone else. Not at all! Yet, at this season of the year we might seriously consider Paul’s exhortations. The issues addressed by the great Apostle are far more serious than simple impropriety or politically incorrect behavior. These issues are full of pollution and spiritual poison. Our Savior and Lord died on Calvary that we would be set free from such degradation. Why then would a disciple of Christ return to or participate in the slavery from which he/she was freed? Instead, we really should be giving thanks for our deliverance and freedom.
Remember God’s goodness and mercy through Christ! There are too many blessings to count, but that is reason enough to continually praise him. Everyday there are occasions to thank and praise God for his favor. By daily reflecting on the grace and goodness of God, we will refresh our “inner man.” Such reflections may serve to excite our gratitude and bring joy to our hearts.
Our joy, however, is expressed in holy gratitude — giving thanks and honor — to God. Instead of indulging in such things as “are improper for God’s holy people,” we joyfully give thanks for our deliverance from those sins. Our joy is expressed by giving glory to the God of our salvation.
Dear Father, thank you for your unspeakable gift of grace. Our joy is full because you delivered us from the bondage of sin. Empower us to always express our joy with thanksgiving. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today and express your gratitude,