Live in the Light...

God shows us, through Paul’s words, how good living in the light is. He tells us what those who live in the light do. He explains how they – how we – put off the old and put on the new.

“Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. ‘In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:25-32, NIV)

Can you think of a better lifestyle?

People who obey these instructions are the kind of people you want to be around. They’re honest. You can trust them. They’re not angry. You don’t have to fear them. They don’t steal. You can share your stuff with them and know it will come back. They control their tongue. You won’t be hurt by them, but encouraged. They aren’t bitter. You can enjoy their company. They don’t quarrel. You can talk with them about your differences. They don’t slander. Your reputation is safe in their hands. They are kind and compassionate. Your needs will be met by them. They’ll actually notice. They forgive. That’s good news, isn’t it? You know you’re going to mess up. They’ll forgive.

Pretty cool, huh? That is the way people who live in the light act. That is the way you live, isn’t it? Oh, you mess up. You get tired and cranky once in awhile, but most of the time you show love. You get selfish from time to time, but most of the time you think of others. You sin against your brother on occasion, but most of the time God gives you the power to say NO! to the dark deeds and yes to the light actions.

Hear God’s Word to you today.

“We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:5-11, NIV)

Live in the light today…and always!

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