activate

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spirituals songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart,”

Ephesians 5:15-19 ESV

The empowering presence of the Holy Spirit makes us better in every way.

Paul encourages the church to therefore consider how we are living each day, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. 

Notice Paul isn’t telling us to make the most of every single moment, but rather make the most of the time. The Greek word used here signifies the difference between time and the time. What is the time exactly?

It is every opportunity we are given to glorify Jesus (Ga 6:10).

Therefore, we must walk as wise and not unwise, and be filled with the Holy Spirit. 

How do we know we are filled with the Holy Spirit? Paul tells us the Holy Spirit will lead us to worship “addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,” He also tells us the Holy Spirit will fill us with gratitude, “giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (V.20).

Rather than squander our time here being distracted and disillusioned, let us throw off every weight hindering us from running our race to the full. Attune with the voice of God. Discern what is best. Devote yourselves to worship. 

It’s not always easy to walk out our calling as Christians but we are not alone. The same Spirit that rose Christ from the dead now lives within us, and He is ready to activate every aspect of our lives for the redemption of God’s kingdom. 

In Him,
Makenzi

additional reading:

Colossians 4:5 / Philippians 1:27 / Proverbs 20:1 / Galatians 5:21-25

reflect:

What aspect of God’s character is to be praised from this passage? Is there something in your life you feel distracts you from redeeming the time? Anything you should stop doing? Anything you should start doing? Why might God be showing you this?

centering prayer:

LORD, may I be filled with more of Your Spirit today, remaining attuned to your perfect will. amen.