People know when you are a phony. We have been trained to call the bluff on politicians’ promises and disregard statements like “real fruit juice” on our sugary drinks. We know if someone or something is putting up a front.

Living for Jesus is more than putting your religious status on Facebook as “Christian”. Living for Jesus is about doing what Jesus called us to do. This isn’t a crazy thought, but hard to do for most. Ephesians 4 lists the characteristics of being children of the light. Light cannot be dark and light at the same time. Light is either fully illuminating or in complete darkness void of all light. Paul’s point is you can’t be a Christian and act like a non-Christian.

HOW TO BE CHILDREN OF THE LIGHT?

1. Create a Daily Habit of Reading Your Bible
Get started by using YouVersion’s free reading plans. Take a couple minutes at the start of your day or at the end of your day to read God's spoken Word in written form. Start in the book of John or use one of the free reading plans here Download the app or access online.

2. Daily Talk with God in Prayer
Tell God what is on your mind, thank Him for life, and ask God for help in whatever you are going through. Just start talking with Him. God will bless the time if you make time to pray.

3. Practice What You Read in Your Life
For example, Ephesians 4 is about two types of people in the early church not getting along. Paul is calling them to be children of God and telling them to love one another just has God has loved them. Just as the people in Ephesus needed to treat each other better, I need to love the people in my life that make my world difficult as well. I need to forgive and love others the same way God has forgiven and loved me. Practice what you read by just making easy action steps from each time you connect with God.

4. Tell Others About the Light
Share the hope you have in Christ with others. You can easily invite them to watch at Saddleback.com/ONLINE or invite them over to watch with you in your place.

Lets be people of the light. Make a difference by not being a fake. Praying for you in this process and pray for me as well. We all need help being more like Jesus.

Learn more how you can get Pastor Rick’s new book by hosting a discussion group online or in your place by going here. Be a light in your community by hosting a group.