~ Ephesians 5:11
Paul’s words in Ephesians 5:11 are both a warning and a mission. As followers of Christ, we are not only called to avoid the works of darkness but also to live in such a way that those works are exposed for what they are. The Christian life is not passive; it is active, intentional, and radiant with light.
The phrase “take no part” in Greek (mē synkoinōneite) means “do not share fellowship with” or “do not participate alongside.” Darkness in Scripture often represents sin, deception, and destructive patterns. These “unfruitful works” promise satisfaction but produce nothing of lasting value. Paul contrasts them with the “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22–23) and the “fruit of light” earlier in Ephesians 5:9—goodness, righteousness, and truth.
But Paul doesn’t stop with avoidance. He commands believers to “expose” the works of darkness. This doesn’t mean harsh judgment or condemnation but rather living as light in such a way that darkness is revealed for what it is. Just as turning on a lamp makes hidden things visible, so our lives, shaped by God’s holiness, uncover the emptiness of the world’s ways.
So how does this connect with the Biblical Health message? The world often celebrates habits that damage both body and soul—overindulgence, addiction, neglect of rest, reckless living. These are “unfruitful works of darkness” because they bear the fruit of disease, stress, and spiritual weakness. As Christians, we are called not only to avoid these patterns but to show by our lives that God’s way is better.
Think about Daniel again in Babylon. By choosing simple, healthy food, he and his friends exposed the king’s rich diet for what it was: indulgent and harmful. Their health and wisdom became a testimony that obedience to God produces fruit. In the same way, when we live by Biblical principles—caring for our bodies, practicing moderation, avoiding destructive substances—we are not only protecting ourselves; we are exposing the lies of the world that say, “This will make you happy.”
Exposing darkness also happens when we speak truth in love. A Christian who refuses to participate in gossip, substance abuse, or unhealthy excess silently testifies that there is a different way to live. And when asked why, we point to Jesus, the Light of the World, who gives abundant life (John 10:10).
This is not about self-righteousness but about stewardship. God has entrusted us with bodies, minds, and spirits to be temples of His presence. When we choose light instead of darkness, fruitfulness instead of futility, we become living witnesses of His transforming power.
Today, consider: Are there areas in my life where I am still sharing fellowship with the world’s darkness? Am I merely avoiding sin, or am I actively shining God’s light? The call is clear: take no part, but instead expose. Let your life be so full of goodness and health that others see the contrast and are drawn to the Source of Light.
Prayer: Lord, help me to walk as a child of light. Give me the courage to step away from unfruitful works and the wisdom to live in a way that exposes darkness with truth and love. May my body, mind, and spirit shine for You. Amen.
