IMITATE CHRIST, WALK IN LIGHT

Text: Ephesians 5:3-20

Imitating Christ is the same as walking in the light. The call we received as Christians is basically to become the carriers of Jesus. We are to be conformed to his own image and progressively take on his divine character traits until we are made perfect and sinless just Like him. Even though the attainment of perfection is not possible here on earth, we are expected to daily put on Christ and continue to mature in him in all things.

Today's passage simplifies it for us. It tells us plainly what is required of us as people who have been awakened from the dead and made alive in the spirit. First in the list is sexual immorality. Why is that so? Because it is the sin that chases away the holy spirit faster than any other.  We are warned in Corinthians; "know ye not that your body is the temple of the holy spirit which lives in you? Therefore, flee sexual immorality for every sin a man commits is outside his body..."  Many believers are found wanting in this area.  

Hence, to be practical and intentional, as a believer, remember that even in the Church people are still human. Are you a sister? Then note well; no pastor is an angel so be careful how friendly you are with them. Dear brother, every sister whether married or single still have emotions so keep your promises and friendships pure and well defined. Do not engage in their personal lives and stories more than you should. These are some subtle ways through which people Fall into sexual immorality. Developing feelings for the opposite sex against socially and scripturally acceptable standards is sin. You must not sleep with the person before you know you have committed the sin. It is an issue of the heart.

Moreso, take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness rather expose them(v11). No whoremonger or idolater will have a part in the kingdom of God and his Christ. (v5).  Remember that there is no little,  big or secret sin. Everything is open before God even though it may be hidden from man for some time. Has God given you a warning about the way you're living or about a particular sin you're easily prone to? Take heed and run back to him. Ask and he will give you the power and wisdom to overcome that sin when you have asked earnestly. 

Finally, only those who have become like Christ in all similitude will inherit the kingdom of God for Christ is the first fruit of the kind of man to inhabit that kingdom. Therefore if you really want to be in that kingdom imitate Christ!

PRAYER: Father, it is not of him who wills nor of him that runs, but of God who shows mercy. By your mercy,please release grace to all who diligently seek you that they may be able to conform to the image of your divine son, Jesus. Amen!