I. The Word: Romans 13:12-13

12 The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy.

II. Reflection Questions:

1. During what time of the day are you typically the most productive/energetic?

2. What is the difference between the way you act on a Tuesday morning and the way you act on Saturday night?

3. Has someone ever “made your day.” What types of things did that person do to brighten your day?

Today’s verses begin with a transitional thought of night winding into a brand new day. The Amplified version states “ The night [this present evil age] is almost gone and the day [of Christ’s return] is almost here.”

The Bible equates the night with this present evil age and the day of Christ’s return as the dawning of a new day. Verse 12 goes on to say let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.

This introduces a whole new thought pattern: while it is yet night in this present evil age where darkness abounds, we can be Light-bearers! What a revolutionary truth.

Throughout this week, we have been studying Romans 13 and what it means to honor God as a citizen of earth. As Paul progresses through Romans 13, I believe he’s showing us what it means to walk the earth as a citizen of heaven. By living according to God’s royal law of love, His most excellent way, we are not only fulfilling our civic duty to the earthly authorities in place, but we are also bringing heaven to earth in a radiant way.

Like Pastor Chris has mentioned before, the brilliance of the beautiful diamond is only enhanced against the stark contrast of the black velvet backdrop. In the same way, when we live according to God’s statutes, which is the most supreme authority, we are a shining light in the darkness.

Verse 13 gives us clear instructions on how to keep our light from becoming shrouded in darkness: “Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy.”

While this list of moral failures may be the norm to some (or even most) in this present evil age, Christ followers do not have to succumb to darkness. Romans 13:12 refers to light as armor. Dedicating our lives to moral excellence not only dispels darkness, but also protects us from any plot of the enemy to wreak havoc on our lives.

Generally, the only time darkness is desired is when one is going to sleep. However, God is stirring us to rise and prepare for the day close at hand: “It is already the hour for you to awaken from your sleep [of spiritual complacency]; for our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed [in Christ].”

Conversely, light is generally desired during one’s waking hours, when he is driving, walking, working. Light reveals what God wants us to see. Light is also essential for seeds to sprout and grow. Being a Light-bearer not only illumines our own path in our walk with God, but it also points other to Jesus. The seeds of the Gospel being sown are drawn to the Light which leads to life.

If you are currently entangled in any of the works of darkness listed in verse 12, I encourage you to fling it off just as you would an old coat that no longer fits, and embrace the light God has called you to be:

“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16 AMP).