"Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive 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 at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”"Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ."
Paul, in this section of Scripture, makes the point that because Jesus has regenerated us (through the power of the Holy Spirit's work) we now have the ability and opportunity to model our lives after Jesus and act like Him. It's important to stop acting/behaving like we did before regeneration (habitual/willfully sinning) and start being "imitators of God." We partner with Jesus in living lives of submission, repentance, and faith. We now can put the old/past sins away (because of the cross) and live lives that are pleasing and honoring to God.
Also, be careful with words, thoughts, and actions. Paul says not to be "foolish" (v.17), but to live in such a way as to honor God, not disrespect Him. Jesus has made it possible for us to be in a right relationship with God emotionally, physically, spiritually, and the Holy Spirit is empowering us to live that spirituality out everyday. We are God's Ambassadors and we represent Him to this world. We need to walk, talk, and look as much like Jesus as possible, so that we can direct others to Him for their salvation and God's Glorification!
Final Thoughts– Be thankful to God for all He has given to us, not covetous for what we see others have that we want and wish we had. When you do get down, look at all the blessings God has given you/me (because they are many), and rest in the sovereignty of God's will. Trust in His character to make all things right and just in His perfect time.
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