Ephesians 5:15-17 – “…be careful how you walk, not as unwise people but as wise, 16 making the most of your time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish but understand what the will of the Lord is.” (NASB)
The Apostle Paul has just gotten done laying down a moral framework of how to walk carefully and wisely in the will of the Lord when we come to vs. 17-18 of Ephesians 5. He says that Christians should be a new creation in having rid themselves of lying whenever it’s convenient. That Christians are a people who, when angry, do not sin and work to be at peace with others quickly. Christians do not steal from others but pursue work to provide for their needs and the needs of others. Christians look to edify with their words and avoid vulgar joking and foul language. They choose to put vengeance in God’s hands and release their hearts from all bitterness and the slander that comes with it. They look to serve the needs of those around them and avoid sexual immorality as defined by Jesus.
Christians understand that Jesus came to save us from these former ways of living and that the wrath of God is coming against all who make a practice of such things. Thus, the Apostle Paul reminds us who have received the grace and mercy of God, be careful. Do not let your guard down and start to let these old ways creep in once again. The wrath of God is coming on those who persist in disobedience.
We are to make the most of the time we have here by rejoicing in Jesus, being filled continually by the Holy Spirit, and walking in love and holiness.
Speaking of making the most of our time, I have felt I need to take a break from writing these daily devotionals for a season. I hope they have been an encouragement in your life! This will be my last devotional for a time. I am working on some new church initiatives and discipleship relationships. I appreciate your prayers and all that you do imitating our loving Father in heaven.