“For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.” (Ephesians 5:8-11 KJV)
Reading Paul’s exhortation in this 5th chapter, one begins to recognize the difference between “beloved children” (v. 1) and “children of disobedience” (v. 6). On the one hand, children who love their Father will follow his example or imitate his actions. On the other hand, children who do not love their Father will disobey him and refuse to follow his example. Their disobedience is evidence of their darkness and lack of love.
Yet, we beloved children must confess that “formerly” we were darkness too. But now we “are light in the Lord”! Aren’t you glad for your now? Someone has said, “who you were is not important. Who are you now?”
And Paul’s point is: in your now, “walk as children of light.” Our attitudes and behaviors give evidence that we are “light in the Lord,” because “goodness, righteousness and truth” are “the fruit of the Light.” (see: Luke 6:42-45 and 1 John 1:7)
Our former darkness truly does not matter because now as “light in the Lord,” we give evidence of what is acceptable to the Lord. It isn’t just a personal test, but proof to those who remain in darkness and continue to disobey.
But as “light in the Lord,” we must be discerning in our relationships. Light and darkness are opposites. Never shall the two mix. The fruit of the Light must not “participate in the unfruitful works of darkness.”
Dear Father, thank you for your transforming grace through Jesus Christ. Empower us to live as children of light so that all may see what is acceptable to the Lord. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be courageous today as transformed children,