See that no one deceives you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth)… (Ephesians 5:6-9)
We often warn teenagers about the dangers of peer pressure. The influence of those around us pulls us toward new behaviors, new language, and even a new way of life. Since the fall we have been hardwired to reject God’s best and embrace cultural pressures and “become partners” with the world around us. Scripture not only warns us against embracing this darkness, it also provides us with a compelling alternative. Paul reminded Christians they are not captive to the darkness, but have been given the light of the Lord to walk as His children. Instead of just “avoiding peer pressure” we have this new way to live as children of the light. The light of Christ illuminates the Spirit-led path to a better way, filled with goodness, righteousness, and truth.
Even still, the pressure remains to return to our old patterns of our life. But the promises this pressure brings are empty and deceptive. They do not stand to the scrutiny of Christ’s light. The way of darkness and complacency is a part of our old life, not part of our new identity. This new way of living as God’s child leads us to live our lives abiding in Him and walking in His way. When we follow this path, it forms us and points the people around us to the eternal hope they are searching for.
- How have you been deceived or influenced by the people around you? How do you discern against empty words?
- What does it look like to live as children of the light? In what areas of your life has it been challenging to take on this new identity?
- Pray and ask God to open your eyes to the empty words you are influenced by and thank Him for His new way of life in Jesus.
