“For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light.” – Ephesians 5:8
LIGHT FOR NOW: The divine nature does not merely bring us into the light; it makes us children of light. The believer no longer lives under the dominion of darkness but manifests the life and character of God.
One of the most remarkable descriptions of the believer is found in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. He writes: “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord”. Notice carefully what Paul says, he does not merely say that believers were in darkness; he says they were darkness. Likewise, he does not merely say believers have entered the light; he declares that they are light in the Lord. This is the language of nature.
Before the new birth, darkness was not merely the environment of fallen humanity; it was its spiritual condition. Darkness in Scripture often represents ignorance of God, spiritual death, separation from God, and the dominion of sin. But when Christ saved us, He did not merely transfer us into a brighter environment; He imparted His own life into us. The life of Christ became the light of men. John declared: “In him was life; and the life was the light of men”.
Wherever the life of God is present, the light of God is present. This is why the believer is called “light in the Lord”. The Lord who is light now lives within us. His divine nature shines through those who belong to Him. Paul then gives an instruction: “Walk as children of light”. The word “walk” comes from the Greek word peripateo, meaning to conduct one’s life, to live daily, or to order one’s behaviour. In other words, Paul is saying: “Live according to who you have become”. This is one of the great principles of the New Testament. Doctrine always precedes conduct. Identity always precedes instruction.
God first tells believers who they are; then He instructs them how to live. We do not walk in the light to become children of light. We walk in the light because we already are children of light. This is the practical expression of the divine nature; light reveals, light guides, light exposes darkness, and light brings clarity. Wherever believers live according to God’s nature, they become living testimonies of Christ’s presence in a dark world. Jesus declared: “Ye are the light of the world”.
Notice again the present tense. Not “you shall become”; but “you are.” This light is not self-generated. Just as the moon reflects the light of the sun, believers reflect the life of Christ. The more we abide in Him, the brighter His light shines through us. This also calls us to integrity. Children of light should not live double lives. Our private conduct should agree with our public confession. Our character should reflect our message. Our daily lives should testify to the transforming power of the gospel. The divine nature leaves no room for hypocrisy; it calls us to authenticity, to purity, to truth, and to holiness.
Today, remember that wherever you go, you carry the light of Christ. Your words can illuminate hope. Your actions can reveal His love. Your life can point others to the Saviour. Walk confidently in that light. For you are no longer darkness; you are light in the Lord. Hallelujah!
INSTRUCTION: Choose today to let your words, attitudes, and actions reflect the light of Christ. Be intentional about bringing hope, truth, and encouragement to those around you.
CONFESSION: Father, thank You for delivering me from the kingdom of darkness and making me light in the Lord. Help me to walk as a true child of light, reflecting the character of Christ in every area of my life. May my life shine brightly for Your glory and lead others to You, in Jesus’ name, Amen. Glory!
For More Light; get the message, “Now we are in Christ” by Dr. John Linus
QUOTE: The believer does not merely live in the light; he carries the light because he shares the life of Christ.
DAILY BIBLE READING: MORNING: EPHESIANS CHAPTER 5; EVENING: MATTHEW CHAPTER 5:13-16
