Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
Ephesians 5:15-17
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Ephesians 5:15 offers us amazing advice. The Holy Spirit, through Paul, encourages us to “be careful how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
It’s really good advice—whether you’re a Christian or not, as a matter of fact.
But the context of this familiar verse raises the importance of it to an even greater level! I don’t know if you’ve ever considered it before.
To understand the full weight of that advice and instruction, we need to go all the way back to Ephesians 4:20-24, where Paul begins his list of exhortations.
In those verses, Paul describes a beautiful transformation that is available for each believer.
He reminds us that in Christ, we have put off our old self (which is being corrupted by deceitful desires); we are made new in the attitude of our minds; and we have put on a new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
“Therefore…” he says. And then he offers a long list of how we should live and act in light of these amazing truths made possible through Christ.
We’re offered an amazing life in Christ. And this is how we make the most of it.
If you look into Ephesians 5, you’ll discover a long list of ways to live out this new reality: avoiding unwholesome talk, speaking with kindness, working honestly with our hands, and living free from impurity and greed, etc..
And then, right in the middle of these exhortations, Paul says to “be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise.”
Living an intentional life—making the most of every opportunity—is as important to God as avoiding sexual immorality, greed, rage, and bitterness. It is given the same weight as the marriage relationship, our relationship with our parents, and how we conduct ourselves at work.
When we recognize the promises God has given us—the promise of a new life, created to be like Him—our response ought to be to live carefully, aware that our time, energy, money, and focus are resources to be used wisely. This means taking every opportunity to reflect God’s love to those around us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the new life You’ve given me. Help me to live intentionally and wisely, making the most of each opportunity with all of my resources. Guide me in using my time, energy, and focus for Your purpose. Amen.