Central Truth

We are to be different, to stand out.  But not in ways that man deems worthwhile or valuable, but instead with humility, integrity, faith beyond reason, love without boundaries and hope reaching past this life.  To be focused on this life only is to be without an eternal perspective.

Reflections

Lately, I have spent a lot of time thinking about how much I love Jesus. If in fact I truly love Him, however, why is it that I can push Him aside so easily throughout my day? 

I am even more troubled by the times that I operate on autopilot, not seeking the Lord on any one thing that I set out to do. Everywhere I go, I am bombarded by the constant onslaught of material possessions, food advertisements, dieting solutions, and the list goes on.  It's overwhelming to try to keep up.

Even in researching this passage, I found several different viewpoints on what scholars believe is being said here. I got lost in trying to decide who I thought was correct and I forgot to just read God’s word. Take it in as the sweet love letter that it is. Be blessed by the words written so long ago, with us in mind!! I was challenged to then take what I read and truly read it, absorb it, and apply it as a child receiving instruction from a someone they trust.

Verse four says, “But you, brethren, are not in darkness . . . .” It may very well be possible that we spend too much time living like one who is paralyzed by the darkness of the world around. We have accepted the “lifestyle of the locals” a little too much. We are sojourners, here for only a brief stay, and yet we submit ourselves to the darkness as if it was to be our lot forever. Paul clearly instructs believers how to be different.

May I suggest a challenge? That we see ourselves as the brethren Paul speaks of and that we live differently. How? Start today, right now. It isn’t too late if you are still here on earth! It's time to live our lives as sons of the light! The time is now.

Discussion Questions

1. How can I live today as one who is not “asleep”?
2. Verse 11 says, “Encourage one another and build up one another.”  What are some ways that you can apply this to your life today?  Who around you needs encouragement?
3. How can we learn to focus more on eternal things, to live as someone who is a “son of the light”?  Are there any things in your life that need a second look?