Theme:   Everyone - Where Everyone is Wanted and Everyone is Needed

Read:  Acts 26

Think:   From the moment the first human sin was brought into the world (Genesis 3:5) we have shared one specific piece of knowledge in common with God: that of our own sin, our own darkness. Guest Pastor Rick discussed this in the context Shakespeare’s Macbeth. In this play, Lord and Lady Macbeth plot in private the murder of King Duncan in order to ensure that Macbeth will assume the throne of Scotland. To assure the success of this plot, both agree to act outwardly in such a way to maintain a “false face” so that others will not suspect them of anything. They chose darkness rather than light…. Falsehood rather than truth…

This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. (1 John 1:5)

From the weekend message we talked about the reality of this truth being CONDITIONAL. We can choose whether to walk in the light or in the dark. Just as we see Macbeth and his wife conspire to hide their awful choice, we do likewise… Choosing darkness and stepping deeply into our sin. In doing so we chose separating ourselves from God by defying his will.

If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. (1 John 1:6)

The effect of this truth is CONNECTION. If we allow ourselves to walk in the light we make connection (real, authentic and true connection) to other people possible. But when we choose to walk in the darkness, we start to breed a level of disconnection with the Lord and with people who are following Him. We can be rooted in a culture of truth (light) or in a culture of lies (darkness). Our decision determines whether we live God’s truth and His plan… or not.

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. (1 John 1:7)

The benefit of this truth is CLEANSING. We can turn to or come back to the light. Confessing our sins to each other and offering God’s grace to each other is how we can clear out the “toxic exhaust” (as Pastor Rick put it) that accumulates in our lives.

Do:  Read today's passage to hear the story of the Apostle Paul's journey from darkness to Light! Take a few moments to ask yourself if there is anything that you need to clear out or clean up in your own life. If you think there is, get the support you need from a counselor or other faithful followers of Christ to support you.

Pray:   God, help me to bring the darkness in my life to your light of truth. Show me how to wisely find the best place to receive the support and encouragement I need. Forgive me for my own hidden sin or the times I have presented a “false face” to others. Amen.

The eDevotional is written each week by a team of volunteers from Timberlake Church.