The Sun Of Righteousness

Ephesians 5:8-10 – For you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. (NASB)

In our wintry months, it seems that the sun rises too late and sets too early. We arise to our daily work in the dark, and return home in the dark, slipping into sadness. The business of the world trudges on, though, as we slog through the snow, and the news that we hear is often dark, whether it be near at hand or abroad.

Reading Ephesians 5:8-20 is like witnessing the bright, piercing winter sun break the horizon, lighting up a brilliant, azure-blue morning sky on a February day. The apostle Paul shows, in the light of day, the difference between "the sons of disobedience" and "children of Light". Those living a disobedient life away from God are called darkness itself, but believers in Jesus are the light of the Lord. The signs of each are obvious: Walking in darkness is marked with anger and rebellion, but a walk in God's light is inscribed with goodness, righteousness, and truth.

The bright light not only exposes the works of darkness, but also shows that darkness bears no fruit, and will soon be destroyed. We are to understand what darkness is, and avoid dwelling on it. Instead, we are to make the most of the time that we are given in this world and to do what Jesus asks us to do. How can we avoid darkness and rebellion? Certainly not in our own strength! We redeem our time on earth by seeking and understanding God's will by a sound knowledge of His Word.

Walking in the light requires a constant infilling with the Holy Spirit; Jesus is called the "Sun of Righteousness". The filling is not a one-time event, but as the sun rises each day, we ask for and receive Him in faith, as a sure remedy for weakness and defeat. This is not a dizzy, diminished feeling of being drunk; alcohol inhibits self-control, wisdom, and judgment. With the Spirit in charge, God is in command of an energized life.

A Spirit-filled life is marked with worship and gratitude. Being filled with the Spirit spontaneously gives a desire to sing and to praise God, and at the same time, gives a profound sense of thanksgiving to the Sun of Righteousness who makes it all possible.

Ephesians 5:14 – Awake, sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you. (NASB)

Prayer: Dear and sovereign Lord, as we pray for the infilling of the Holy Spirit, fill us with gratitude and song, praising Jesus, the Sun of Righteousness! Amen!

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