Romans 13:13

Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

Romans 13:13 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of a larger passage in Romans where the apostle Paul urges believers to live upright and honourable lives. In the immediate context, Paul speaks of the day of salvation being near and calls Christians to cast off the works of darkness and put on the armour of light. The phrase “as in the day” connects with the preceding verse, “the night is far spent, the day is at hand” (Romans 13:12), reminding believers that they live in the light of Christ’s coming.

Meaning

The Greek word translated “honestly” (euschemonos) means “decently” or “becomingly,” in a manner appropriate to those who are children of light. To “walk honestly” is to live with integrity and sincerity, being truthful in our dealings, transparent in our actions, and maintaining a good reputation both before God and others. The phrase “as in the day” suggests living with transparency and accountability, as if all our actions were seen and known.

Paul lists three pairs of sins to avoid. “Rioting” refers to carousing, reveling, or wild parties, while “drunkenness” is the excessive consumption of alcohol leading to impaired judgment. These warn against disorderly behaviour and the loss of self-control. “Chambering” refers to sexual immorality or illicit sexual behaviour, and “wantonness” refers to sensuality, lustful desires, or debauchery. Together they call believers to maintain sexual purity and to guard against fleshly desires that contradict God’s design for human relationships. “Strife” means contention, quarreling, or dissension, and “envying” is jealousy or covetousness. These warn against divisive attitudes and call Christians to promote unity, peace, and love, celebrating and supporting one another in humility.

Application

Romans 13:13 reminds us of the importance of living with integrity, self-control, purity, and love. It encourages us to reflect the character of Christ in our daily lives and relationships, both within the Christian community and in our interactions with the world. This verse also appears in a passage discussing the Christian’s submission to governing authorities, urging believers to be subject to them as long as their commands do not conflict with God’s commands. This context underscores the importance of living upright lives and being good citizens, reflecting Christ in all aspects of life.

Reflection

Consider how your daily conduct aligns with the call to walk honestly as in the day. Are there areas where you are tempted to indulge in the works of darkness? Let this verse encourage you to put on the armour of light and live in a manner worthy of the gospel.