Daily Devotional – Wednesday, May 13, 2026
And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.
Ephesians 5:11 (NKJV)
Eli was a respected priest in Israel, but there was a serious challenge in his home. His sons abused their position in the house of God and led many people into sin (1 Samuel 2:12 to 17, 22 to 25). Eli spoke to them, yet he never truly stopped them. He watched the wrong thing continue for too long. In the end, what he failed to confront damaged not only his family but also the spiritual life of the nation. His story is a reminder that silence is more damaging than we think.
What Eli Failed to Stop
Paul’s message to the Ephesians is not merely a warning against sinful behaviour. He warns believers not to “have fellowship” with darkness. That fellowship can happen quietly through silence, compromise, or passive approval. Like Eli, a person may never commit the wrongdoing personally, yet still allow it to grow by refusing to address it. Darkness often survives because people who know better convince themselves it is easier to stay quiet than to stand for what is right.
Our times are not different. Many people stay silent because they want to “keep the peace.” A parent ignores unhealthy behaviour at home. A friend laughs along with conversations that dishonour God. A believer avoids speaking truth because they fear rejection or conflict. Over time, silence begins to look like agreement. What starts as discomfort slowly becomes compromise, and compromise eventually weakens spiritual conviction.
When Good People Say Nothing
Paul also says believers should rather expose the works of darkness. This does not mean acting harshly or searching for faults in others. Light exposes darkness simply by shining. The life of honesty, kindness, purity and courage will show what pleases God without any effort. Eli’s silence allowed darkness to spread, but faithful obedience will help to lead people back towards truth. Sometimes one quiet act of courage is the turning point another person desperately needs.
Pray today that God would show you where fear or comfort has replaced courage. Do not support wrongdoing, even silently. Speak the truth in love and humility, especially in those places where compromise is the norm. Your words, your choices, and your example might be the light God uses to pull someone else out of the darkness and back to Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the courage to stand for truth, with love and wisdom, even when silence is easier.
