Ephesians 5:8-21

It always amazes me (and it shouldn’t) when Pastor Josh’s sermon is reflected in our discussion at adult Sunday school (School of Christian Living) or when what we share at KidzLife on Wednesday evening lines up with one of my small group studies.

Recently, during one of our KidzLife meetings, we were discussing Jesus’ charge to us as believers to “let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16. As God’s Garage became completely dark and quiet, we realized the impact of light, as each child took turns turning on a small flashlight. What a difference light makes in the darkness…..even a small light!

In the same way, Ephesians 5:8-21 was the text for a recent discussion in my ladies’ Bible study group where the apostle Paul tells the believers in Ephesus (and all believers) that “you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” The questions that beg to be asked are “How do we live as children of light when we see so much darkness in the world today?” and “Exactly what does it look like to live as children of light?” First of all, I believe it isn’t living in a bubble and avoiding the world at all costs. It also isn’t staying super busy and ignoring those in our community, our
neighbors and our friends. And it definitely isn’t pointing our finger at those living in darkness and having no love and compassion for them.

Instead, the Holy Scripture from Ephesians 5: 8-21 goes on to tell us how we are to live:

• First, we are to be filled with the Holy Spirit – daily dying to self and allowing the Spirit control.
• We are then filled with His goodness, His righteousness and His truth.
• We are to be careful how we live.
• We are to sing and make music in your heart to the Lord! (Singing hymns in the car counts!)
• We are to give thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
• And we are to make the most of every opportunity. An interruption could be a God appointment!
• And finally, we are to be humble and submissive out of reverence for Christ.

All of that sounds like a tall order…and it is! It goes completely against our human nature, which is why we need the Holy Spirit to “fall afresh on us” each day. He will empower us to be His light in this dark world.

May the Lord, through His Holy Spirit, help us to shine His light into the darkness so that others will see the True Light, glorify God and live for Him.

Heavenly Father, fill me anew today with Your Holy Spirit. Help me to make the most of every opportunity to live as a child of Your light so that others may be drawn to You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.