This is an exhortation concerning the new life in Christ Jesus. When we receive Christ as our Lord and as our only God, a radical transformation takes place in our lives. Scripture teaches that we were once in darkness, but now we are in the light of the Lord. This change is not merely external or symbolic; it is a profound spiritual reality. The old way of living, governed by sin and separation from God, is replaced by a new life marked by obedience, holiness, and communion with Him.
To be in Christ means that darkness no longer has dominion over us. The chains that once bound us—sin, guilt, fear, and spiritual blindness—have been broken by the power of the cross. Christ did not merely improve our old life; He gave us an entirely new one. This new life demands a new way of thinking, speaking, and acting. The believer is no longer called to live according to the patterns of the world, but according to the will of God.
Since we are now in the Lord, the enemy has no rightful part or authority in our ways. Satan no longer rules over those who belong to Christ, for they have been transferred from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light. However, this does not mean that the enemy ceases his attempts to deceive, tempt, or influence believers. That is why it is essential to understand that God is with us and that we must live in constant obedience to Him, depending fully on His grace and strength.
The believer is called to fill his life with God—His Word, His presence, and His truth. When we neglect spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Scripture reading, and fellowship, we become vulnerable. For this reason, we must cover ourselves daily with God’s protective shield. This shield is not a physical object, but the spiritual protection that comes from walking closely with the Lord, trusting His promises, and submitting to His authority.
The apostle Paul addresses believers who have already divested themselves of the old man. The “old man” represents the former way of life characterized by sin, rebellion, and ignorance of God. These believers had come to Christ, experienced spiritual renewal, and were called to live as new creatures. Paul exhorts them not to return to behaviors that belonged to their former life, behaviors that reflected the children of darkness rather than the children of light.
Neither give place to the devil.
Ephesians 4:27
This short yet powerful command carries deep spiritual significance. Paul warns believers not to give any opportunity, foothold, or space to the devil. The phrase “give place” implies allowing room, permission, or access. Satan does not need complete control to cause damage; even a small opening can lead to great harm. Through unresolved anger, bitterness, pride, deceit, or disobedience, the enemy seeks to regain influence in the believer’s life.
Paul’s warning makes it clear that spiritual danger exists when believers fail to fully abandon the old man. Old habits, sinful attitudes, and worldly desires can become gateways through which the enemy works. This does not mean that a true believer loses salvation, but it does mean that spiritual joy, peace, and effectiveness can be severely hindered. When believers tolerate sin, they weaken their resistance and expose themselves to deception.
The devil operates through lies and subtle compromises. He rarely approaches openly, but rather seeks small gaps—areas of disobedience or negligence. That is why Paul insists that believers must not even give him a small opening. Spiritual vigilance is necessary. A heart fully surrendered to Christ leaves no room for the enemy’s influence.
Understanding our identity is crucial. If we are truly new in Christ, we must live accordingly. Salvation is not only a change of destiny, but a change of identity. The believer is now a child of God, adopted into His family, and called to reflect His character. This new identity demands a new conduct that aligns with God’s holiness and truth.
Leaving the old man behind is not a one-time decision, but a daily commitment. Each day, the believer must choose obedience over sin, truth over lies, humility over pride. This requires dependence on God’s wisdom and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. No one can live the Christian life in their own strength; it is only possible through God’s enabling grace.
Believers must constantly remember who they are in Christ. They are no longer slaves to sin, but servants of righteousness. They are no longer children of wrath, but children of God. When this truth is firmly rooted in the heart, it becomes a powerful defense against temptation. The enemy loses his power when believers stand firmly in their identity in Christ.
Therefore, it is essential to ask God daily for wisdom, discernment, and strength. Wisdom helps us recognize the tactics of the enemy and avoid situations that could lead us astray. Discernment enables us to distinguish between truth and deception. Strength empowers us to resist temptation and remain faithful in trials.
Remember that you are already a child of God, a new creation in Christ. Live according to that truth. Do not allow old patterns, sinful desires, or worldly influences to regain control. Guard your heart, renew your mind with God’s Word, and walk in obedience. By doing so, you will not give room to the enemy of souls, but instead glorify God through a life that reflects His light.
May every believer take this exhortation seriously, embracing the new life in Christ with gratitude and commitment. When we walk in the light, covered by God’s protection and guided by His Word, we experience victory, peace, and spiritual growth. This is the life God desires for all who belong to Him.