2026 Pentecost Devotions II
Friday, September 4
Romans 13:11-14
11 Besides this, you know what time it is, how it is already the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; 12 the night is far gone; the day is near. Let us then throw off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; 13 let us walk decently as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in illicit sex and licentiousness, not in quarreling and jealousy. 14 Instead, put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.
“… Let us then throw off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; …”
It’s easy to get caught up in the works of darkness. When I was a teenager, some of my friends were into the drug scene. (This was the 60’s). Marijuana, LSD, various forms of uppers and downers along with any variety of alcohol were readily available. One didn’t have to look very far to find a source. Needless to say, for a time, especially in my later teen years, I was part of that scene.
Paul reminds us that in order to throw off the works of darkness what is needed is a source of light. For me, it came in the form of a good friend who led me in another direction. Knowing that associating with the same crowd was leading me down a darkened path, she redirected me toward a source of light. Thankfully, I was able to follow.
Most of us, at one time of another, take a path that leads toward places where it’s dark. It may take many forms, but all have a common aspect – turning our hearts and minds away from the divine source of light and life. Thankfully, as it was in my case, a good friend, colleague, family member, or spouse comes to our rescue. Led by the Spirit, they redirect our focus away from that which leads to darkness and death toward that which brings light and life.
Prayer: Lord of Light, you are the source of light and life. When I am headed toward the darkness, send forth Your Spirit that I may be redirected toward life in You. Amen.