The move from darkness to light changes three things: the way God views us, the way we view ourselves, and the way we view life’s purpose. Notice how Paul continues his thought in Ephesians 5:8-10.
…for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.
God views us as light “in the Lord.” Remember Paul’s favorite way to describe our new place or position: In the Lord we enjoy all spiritual blessings, including grace and forgiveness.10 In the Lord the Spirit builds us into His temple, and makes us a glorious new creation.11
When we were “baptized into Christ,” we became “clothed with Christ.” 12 Hence God the Father no longer sees us as we were, or as we are by ourselves. Rather, He views Jesus over us, completely covering us. He sees us in His Son, so pure, so holy, so right with God. “In His sight,” therefore, we are innocent of all blame.
…even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him (Ephesians 1:4).
And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him… (Colossians 1:21-22).
Looking through Jesus, God sees no darkness in you, no shadow, not even a hint of dimness. “Now you are light in the Lord!”
10. Ephesians 1:3,6-7; 2:7; 4:32; Romans 8:1