Ephesians 5:11 says, “take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.” We have been called to walk in the light as he is in the light. Just a few verses earlier Paul instructed us that we were at one time darkness “but now you are light in the Lord.” He goes on to say that we are to “walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:8-10).
Unfruitful?
Who wants to spend all their time and energy throughout the day on utterly useless activities? What a waste! Time is a precious gift of God and instead we ought to “try and discern what is pleasing to the Lord” (Eph 5:10). Paul says that we should “take no part” in works of darkness. This doesn’t leave room for compromise. We shouldn’t be afraid to say that something isn’t right but we should be very careful that we do not get caught up in the problem. Paul says in verse 12 that it is shameful even to speak of the things that people do in secret! We can bring attention to something without having to focus on the details.
What should we do?
Paul gives us the answer in Ephesians 5:15 and 16. “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” We are going to need wisdom to walk well in God’s world and many times we just do not know what to do. Take heart! God has promised to give wisdom to the one who believes in James 1:5-6 “If any of you lacks wisdom, ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to that person. But we must ask in faith, with no doubting.”
Conclusion
Take heart, follower of Jesus! There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Rom 8:1). I have struggled alot in the past with doubt and unbelief but I have taken great comfort from this verse, “I believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24).
