Living in Increase (Part 9) - Increase in HealthSample

Expose the Darkness

It’s one thing to ask God to keep you from copying the sinful patterns of the world. It’s another thing to expose the sinfulness in and around you.

Ephesians 5:11 says that deeds of evil and darkness are “worthless.” They add no value to anyone or anything. Part of being healthy spiritually is exposing the darkness in ourselves and others.

Notice that I said we had to expose the darkness in ourselves before we reveal the darkness in others. This is intentional because we can’t point out sin in someone else’s life if we don’t see it in our own lives. The Bible says, “Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:3). If you see a speck in someone else, you better take a long and hard look at the log in you before saying anything!

However, there are moments when we will see the power of darkness at work in someone’s life that is not adding value to them. We should be empowered to encourage that person to repent out of love, not condemnation or anger. “Repent” simply means to turn in another direction. If someone I love is suffering, and I see the cause of that suffering and know there’s a way out, I will share with them out of love. However, their life is their choice. I cannot force anyone to do anything; I must give them their freedom.

As for us, though, as followers of Jesus, we are called not to have any part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness. We are not here to hide them or protect them. We are here to expose them; when we expose evil, we allow our spirits to be healthy.

Emily N. Green

Action Step: Ask God to reveal the log in your own eye before you point out the speck in others. Pray that God would give you the ability to confront issues with love.