December 5, 2011 (Ephesians 5-6; Psalm 119:1-80)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them;” Ephesians 5:11 NASB
Observation: Paul instructs us to be careful how we walk and who we walk with. It is very important to avoid any pleasure or activity that results in sin. In fact we are not only instructed to stay clear of these things, but we are to expose them. When the light of Christ is in you, you can’t help but shine. This is one of the reasons Christians are hated and even despised. Remember John the Baptist? His head was chopped off because he let his light shine! He exposed the sinful actions of darkness and was persecuted because of it.
Application: We shouldn’t be surprised when we are persecuted for letting our lights shine. We will often hear, “you’re just holier than thou, you have no right to judge me. The bible says judge not…”, but we should not be discouraged or dismayed. It’s the word of God that judges, not us. But as vessels of honor, God uses us to expose the unfruitful works of darkness. The word of God instructs us to openly expose these actions because our silence could be mis-interpted as approval if we don’t. God wants people who will take a stand for whats right. As Christians we must be bold enough to speak out against the evil works of darkness, while being very careful not to be overcome by temptation ourselves.
Prayer: Dear Lord, You are wonderful. Your love is everlasting and eternal! I thank You and praise You for Your love. Help me Father, walk according to Your word. Use me, as a vessel of honor. Let Your light shine through me, exposing the unfruitful works of darkness, showing the filthiness of sin. By Your Spirit convict the heart and soul of each of us and bring us to repentance, in Jesus name, Amen!