Read Romans 13:8-14

“Let us walk properly, as in the day…” (Romans 13:13)

What good is a soldier who, though awake, dressed, and ready for battle, fails to march to his post? Such a soldier renders himself useless! He must embrace his purpose! Being awake and dressed is not enough; he must be propelled into action. Let us walk, as Paul commands.

Notice the quality of our walking that Paul emphasizes. He does not merely suggest a leisurely stroll for the sake of walking. No, he calls us to walk properly.

The term "properly" in Greek appears only three times in the New Testament, highlighting its rarity and intentionality in Paul’s choice. It means: becomingly, with propriety, or with decency. This word evokes the image of wearing the appropriate attire for a specific occasion. No one ought to play football in a tuxedo! Nor should anyone attend a formal dinner engagement in flip-flops. And certainly, it is absurd to venture out in the heat of the day donning an Eskimo suit! Such choices are not only contrary but also foolish and potentially perilous.

When a decorated soldier puts on their full uniform, they bear the honor of representing their country, standing tall, and walking with purpose. Furthermore, in uniform, they are expected to walk differently than when they are off duty.

Beloved! We are on duty, and we wear a decorated uniform —the uniform of light— so let us walk as we are meant to walk in its presence, as in the day! How shocking it is for the world to witness the church adorned in the armor of light while engaging in the works of darkness! To see a Christian dressed for battle against Satan while making pacts with him! How disheartening to see so many claim to be Christian, and yet do not walk properly! As a result, the world struggles to believe in the light we put on and proclaim.

“…If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” (Matthew 6:23)

Friend, are you wearing the armor of light with impropriety? Are you walking in the light as you ought to, to please your Master, Jesus Christ? You are empowered by His Spirit and grace to do so. And in embracing this walk, you will not only discover joy in your relationship with Christ but also inspire others to follow suit. Let us walk properly and dare to make the darkness tremble at the light of Christ shining forth!

“…walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.” (1 Thessalonians 2:12)