It’s easy to forget who we were before Christ. But remembering the contrast between what we once were and who we are now helps us walk with humility and purpose. Ephesians 5:8 is a simple yet profound reminder: we used to be darkness—but now, because of Jesus, we are light.

Scripture:
“For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!” — Ephesians 5:8, NLT

Reflection:
Paul doesn’t say we were just in darkness—he says we were darkness. It wasn’t just our surroundings that were broken; it was our very nature. Lost in sin, we lacked the light of truth, the warmth of grace, and the clarity of purpose. But then came the Lord—the Light of the world—and everything changed.

Now, Paul says, we have light from the Lord. This isn’t something we generated. It’s a gift—a new identity, a new source of life. We’ve been transferred from the kingdom of darkness into the Kingdom of the Son (Colossians 1:13). We don’t just walk in the light—we belong to the light.

And because of that, we’re called to live as people of light. That means our lives should reflect who we are in Christ—marked by truth, purity, and love. The light within us should touch every part of how we live: how we speak, how we treat others, how we respond to temptation, and how we spend our time.

Application:
Are you living as someone who has light from the Lord? Let your daily choices reflect the identity Christ has given you. When you’re tempted to compromise or hide, remember—you are light now. Shine where God has placed you. Not for your glory, but for His.

References:
“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.” — Matthew 5:14, NLT
“But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people… He called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.” — 1 Peter 2:9, NLT

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for calling me out of darkness and giving me Your light. Remind me daily of who I am in You. Help me live as a child of the light—honoring You in my thoughts, words, and actions. Let my life reflect Your truth and draw others to Your grace. Amen.