TOPIC: THE CHALLENGES OF LIVING AS CHILDREN OF LIGHT IN OUR TIME

TEXT: Ephesians 5:11-13; Romans 12:2

INTRODUCTION:

Challenges are problems, issues or difficulties that interfere with your quality of life or ability to achieve life goals. Our decision to live as children of light is not without challenges, anything that hinders our effective Christian living is a challenge. Living as children of light in our time presents several challenges.

1. Materialism/ worldliness:

The emphasis on material possessions and accepting worldly views of life can distract one from proper spiritual growth and godly Christian living.

2. Social/peer pressure:

Peer and societal pressure to conform to secular values and lifestyle can be intense, making it challenging to maintain a distinct spiritual identity.

3. Technology and Information:

With the constant influx of information through social media, discerning the truth from falsehood and maintaining a spiritually nourished environment can be challenging.

4. Poverty/hardship:

Lack, hardship and adversity can be challenging,testing one's faith in the face of adversity.

5. Doubts/fear:

Can pose as a big challenge to living as children of light, especially when we question our abilities, fear of the unknown can also question our beliefs or the promises of God.

6. Deceptions:

Standing for God and living as light in our time can be challenging in the face of deceptions and manipulations, it takes one to be spiritually discerning and alert.

7. Moral and ethical values:

In a world where moral values are often questioned or compromised, adhering to moral principles and the word of God poses as a challenge.

8. Delays:

When we are waiting on God, and it seems we are being delayed, living as light becomes a challenge.

9. Sin:

Living in sin, secretly and condoning the sin without repentance and confession hinders our walk with God and poses a challenge to living as light. We can overcome these challenges by:

i. Look unto Jesus Christ(Heb.12:12)

ii. Take a stand for Christ and stand firm in our convictions(1 Cor.15:58)

III. Depend on God's grace (2 Cor.12:9)

IV. Surround yourself with other believers (Heb.10:25)

v. Encourage yourself in the Lord (1 Sam.30:6-8)

vi. Pray and claim the promises of God.

vii. Choose faith and joy (James 1:2-4)

CONCLUSION:

We are not alone in our struggles, no matter the challenges we found ourselves, let us lean on God for strength and guidance, through faith in God, these challenges can be conquered as we live as children of light in our time.

Exclusive publication of the Women's Ministries of the General Council of Assemblies of God Nigeria.