Light And Darkness Don’t Mix
Friday August 5, 2016
Light and darkness just don’t mix. Yesterday we considered how, and with whom, we are spending our time. Today we consider what's going on in our thought life and our beliefs.
Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them. (Ephesians 5:11 NLT).
What are we thinking about? Are we harboring irritable, hateful, or lustful thoughts? We need to come into the light, confess our dark thoughts, and receive forgiveness. We need to discipline ourselves and refocus our minds on the light of God’s truth. Are our beliefs, thoughts, and behaviours 100% in line with God’s word? We can’t just ignore those parts of the Bible that are inconvenient. In fact, ignoring the truth of God’s word drives us further and further into the shadows.
God is light. There is no darkness in him at all. Suppose we say that we share life with God but still walk in the darkness. Then we are lying. We are not living by the truth. (1 John 1:5, 6 NIRV)
Are we willing to forgive and treat everyone with respect, even those who have harmed us? Forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling. Unforgiveness casts a greater shadow on our relationship with God than on our relationship with those who offend us. God says holding resentments brings darkness but forgiveness opens us up to His light and love. Do our actions show we believe this to be true?
If anyone calls down curses on his father or mother, his lamp will be blown out in total darkness. Anyone who says he loves God but in fact hates his brother or sister is a liar. Love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you. (Proverbs 20:20, 1 John 4:20, Luke 6:27 NIRV)
Light and darkness just don’t mix. God wants us to recognize our shortcomings and come out of the shadows. He desires that we fully enter into the light of His presence and experience His goodness. Where am I recognizing shadows in my life today, and what am I willing to do about it?
©2016 Partners in Hope
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