“This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin” 1 John 1:5-7.

The most common accusation made against followers of Christ is that of hypocrite: we say one thing but do another; our words are inconsistent with our actions. Such accusations are not unfounded: we inevitably will fail from time to time to live up to the perfect standard. The real problem is when we deliberately choose a lifestyle inconsistent with our profession of faith.

Two key words used by John are “walk” and “practice.” A lapse in inconsistency is different than a deliberate lifestyle and habit contrary to the character of God. If we belong to the “Light God” then we should live a “light” lifestyle. A benefit in so doing is that we have a fellowship connection with others whose priority is the same. This says much about the nature of true christian fellowship: the more diligent our Spirit-led efforts to live a “light” lifestyle, the closer we draw to others doing the same. Additionally, we live even more under the grace of forgiveness through the cleansing blood of Christ. We grow in purity and sincere love. That’s a real win/win situation!

I’ve shared in a variety of church fellowships over the years. As I think of the unique collection of personalities that comprise each fellowship I think of how very different each one has been. Within each group, there are varieties of levels of fellowship. Within each group, there is a core of people who are passionate in their pursuit of holiness; who seek to authentically walk and practice what they learn and profess. These are the greatest source of joy, who encourage others to live similarly.

I will always remember the godly elderly man whose searching question ought to serve as a guide for all: If every member’s commitment was the same as mine, what kind of church would this be? Strong and vital, or withering and dying?

We will falter from time to time in our walk with the God of Light, but the greater tragedy would be a deliberate lifestyle contrary to His will and way. May we truly be Light to others through our walk and practice.

Be sure to also see Amazon ebook & print devotional and podcast: New Day Dawning.