In what ways can we discern darkness in our daily interactions? Anchoring Ourselves in the Text “Therefore do not be partakers with them.” (Ephesians 5:7) Paul has just listed “sexual immorality, any impurity, or greed,” along with “obscenity, foolish talk, or crude joking” (vv. 3–4). He sums it up by telling believers to refuse partnership with anyone walking in those patterns. What “Darkness” Looks Like Scripture consistently paints darkness as whatever opposes God’s character and corrupts our fellowship with Him. Notice the traits: • Moral darkness – behaviors that violate God’s revealed standards (Ephesians 5:3; 1 Corinthians 6:9–10). • Intellectual darkness – thinking that suppresses truth or calls evil “good” (Romans 1:21–22). • Relational darkness – patterns that exploit, deceive, or withhold love (1 John 2:9–11). • Spiritual darkness – influences that deny Christ’s lordship or tolerate idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:20–21). Everyday Signs We’re Brushing Up Against Darkness 1. Conversation that normalizes sin • Repeated coarse joking, gossip, or verbal tearing down (Ephesians 4:29). 2. Media that dulls sensitivity to holiness • Streaming content celebrating what Jesus died to free us from (Psalm 101:3). 3. Business practices compromising integrity • “White lies,” fudged numbers, or unjust treatment of employees (Proverbs 11:1). 4. Relationships fueling envy or greed • Pressure to keep up appearances rather than pursue righteousness (Luke 12:15). 5. Social settings steeped in drunkenness or sexual looseness • Atmospheres where self-control and purity are mocked (1 Peter 4:3–4). Discernment Toolkit from Scripture • Test the fruit ‑ “For the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth.” (Ephesians 5:9) ‑ Ask: Does this interaction produce goodness? Does it align with truth? • Compare to Christ’s teaching ‑ “Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) ‑ Anything contradicting His words is darkness, no matter how trendy. • Listen to the Spirit’s check ‑ “The anointing you received… teaches you about all things and is true.” (1 John 2:27) ‑ A restless conscience often signals compromise. • Seek the counsel of mature believers ‑ “In an abundance of counselors there is victory.” (Proverbs 24:6) ‑ Invite trusted voices to spot blind spots we miss. • Evaluate fellowship patterns ‑ “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers… what fellowship has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14) ‑ Partnership implies shared goals; if those goals defy God’s ways, step back. Practically Stepping Out of the Shadows • Replace tempting settings with environments that stir up faith: Bible study groups, service projects, wholesome recreation. • Memorize and speak Scripture when confronted by darkness (Psalm 119:11). • Keep short accounts with God—confess quickly, receive cleansing, move forward in light (1 John 1:7). • Cultivate habits of gratitude and worship; darkness withers where light is celebrated (Ephesians 5:19–20). Why This Matters “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” (Ephesians 5:8) Discerning darkness isn’t about smug separation; it’s about guarding the radiant testimony Christ purchased for us. The more clearly we spot the shadows, the more boldly His light shines through our lives. |
    |