09/27/2025
Do you ever turn on the news and the first thing you hear is stories about sexual abuse, murder, or theft? What about your social media? It is just as bad about sharing horror stories too. And just turning on the television in general we have stories of serial killers, cults, terrorism, abuse or so many other vile things. Even our movies are focused on evil anymore. Think about movies such as Seven, The Silence of the Lambs, The Vanishing, Natural Born Killers, Alien, or Gretel and Hansel to name a few. A lot of our books are even going to the dark side. There are many series of books written on true crime or fiction these days that are full of wickedness. This list of dark entertainment could go on and on with their twists of mystery, blood, guts, and horror. But also, what dark minds write these types of stories or create these kind of movies? How do these theatrics affect the readers or those watching? Do they teach a lesson for God or is the devil winning his case to destroy our relationships with Jesus?
Throughout scripture darkness symbolizes sin and its effects. There is nothing beneficial, productive, or holy when dealing with the darkness. There is no harmony between God and the devil. After all, God being the light always drowns out the darkness of the devil.
Scripture warns us time and again not to engage in unrighteousness or dark activities. We are to distance ourselves from sinful entertainment, because they often have hidden agendas or lack any spiritual value for a lasting benefit. This tactic by the devil is meant to infiltrate our minds and thoughts to distract us from what is good and right. When these negative actions are brought into the light of God, their dark intent becomes visible for all to see. We do not need to publically shame someone, but we do need to call someone out when their bad behavior is causing a negative effect on others. Reject the bahavior but do not disown the people. Use the opportunity to lead them to God. And when calling them out, be stern, but do it with compassion, kindness, and gentleness. Use the character of Jesus in this conversation of correction. Stand on your faith. Lead by the example He set before us.
This specific verse of Ephesians 5:11 is calling believers to have spiritual discernment and the courage to actively confront and reveal sin for what it is. Call it out! But be nice! Promote the truth of God. He gave us a choice in all that we do, which means when certain words or actions are morally wrong, worthless, and of no good, we are to speak against it. Do not participate in these evil activities. Even if it means changing friendships, turning off social media, or changing locations.
This passage also reminds us that these sinful, pointless, and morally wrong actions and behaviors are to be avoided at all costs. God commands us to have no association, involvement, or partnership in any dark, sinful activity. The works of the darkness offered by the devil is not fruitful, but the things of God bring eternal life. Jesus said in John 8:12 “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” We must let our good deeds shine brightly for everyone to see, so that everyone will praise our Heavenly Father. As our childrens so g says, we must be that little lamp that is not hidden under that bushel. Do not be scared to share the Truth of the Gospel.
We encourage you to visit a Bible driven church this Sunday morning at 11a.m. to share your light. ✝️✝️✝️
Charlie Williams
Amy-Charlie Williams