…as you try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. Do not participate in the useless deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. (Ephesians 5:10-12)
On this holiday, we celebrate Jesus’ birth with family and friends, with food, gifts, and each other’s company. As we reflect on the birth of Christ, we reflect on it not just as a story but as a pivotal moment in history that impacts and changes everything about how we live today. Because of the baby born in Nazareth, learning what is pleasing to God is no longer a foreign concept but is embodied through Jesus. We learn what is pleasing to God by looking at Him. He did not give us a to-do list for our life but He showed us what life with God looks like.
Because of Him we can discern “useless deeds,” stop pursuing them, and instead live a life that glorifies God. Part of what we celebrate at Christmas is how Christ entered into the world, overcame the darkness in it, and provides a path for us out of darkness. Through Him we can live in a way that is pleasing to God. In Him, we find hope and life. We are invited to go deeper in this walk with God, knowing that it is possible and living to please Him as we follow Christ. Consider today all that Jesus has done to overcome sin and darkness and honor His sacrifice by embracing a life that is pleasing to Him through the power of the Holy Spirit.
- How have you tried to please God on your own? What does it look like to follow the way Jesus lived a life of pleasing God?
- How has the birth of Jesus impacted you today? What areas of your life still need to be formed and shaped by Him?
- Pray and thank God for Jesus and the impact He is still making on your life today.
