Scripture

Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires.

Observation

Owe nothing to anyone except the debt to love. Loving my neighbour fulfils all the commandments. Love does no wrong to others, so it fulfils the requirements of God’s law.

We must live as children of the light. Time is running out. The night is nearly over and the day of salvation will soon be here. We must therefore live in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Application

What does a message about the return of Jesus normally look like? Often, it is a call to be careful about the rise of the Antichrist. It might be an appeal to get saved, or to share the gospel with those who are not saved.

Paul here uses the belief that Jesus is coming soon to encourage us to get ready by putting on deeds of righteousness. Jesus is coming soon, so make sure you are living the way you should be.

Paul tells us that we must clothe ourselves with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. To me, this means two things- a commitment to prayer and worship, and a commitment to overcoming the sins in my life.

If we are really aware that Christ is already with us, then of course we will make prayer and worship a priority. These things flow from a heart transformed by Him.

Equally, we will be wanting to live in a way that is worthy of His presence. Paul says, “Don’t even let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires.” The sins that cause so much guilt and shame start with our thoughts. If we train our brains to shun these thoughts, then our lives will reflect the glory of Christ.

Prayer

Lord, please change me to be more like Christ, Thank you for the Holy Spirit who brings conviction of my sins. Help me to put away deeds of darkness and walk in your light. Amen.