As I was reading through God’s word, I came across this important instruction from the Apostle Paul.
“So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.” Ephesians 5:15-17
In this passage of scripture, he gives three distinct ways we are all to live our lives.
1) We are to live wisely… How do we do this? We should make choices that follow God’s direction instead of our own. We need to apply past failures to move us forward into future successes. We are to surround ourselves with friends who help us in our walk rather than pull us backward. And finally, spend our time serving and giving to others. Generosity and a servant’s heart are two pieces of evidence that reveal a life moving in the right direction.
2) We are to make the most of every opportunity… This includes maximizing our lives. Eat well, sleep enough, save some money, seek joy over happiness, do something that fulfills us, connect with others, grow, read, etc. And we do these not for their own sake… but so that we can be prepared when God gives us opportunity to move forward. There is nothing more unfortunate than something we’ve been praying for coming to light… and not being prepared to seize the chance to make it happen.
3) We are to understand and act on what the Lord wants us to do. What is that? What is it that God wants ALL of us to do with our lives? We talked about it a few days ago.. fulfill the Great Commission as explained in Matthew 28:18-20. To go out and share the Good News with those that have never heard it…. to be the hands and feet of Christ serving others… to be the living church…. active, loving, and providing for others.
Paul is telling us to live wisely following God’s example, be prepared for and seize opportunity, and fulfill the Great Commission… are you willing and ready?
