Ephesians 5:15-21 NIV
15 Be very careful, then, how you live–not as unwise but as wise,16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.19 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord,
20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
A simple passage today before getting into a lengthy one tomorrow. Paul exhorts the people to watch how they live, to watch their witness. To make the most of every opportunity.
Ecclesiastes 9:10 Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.
When are being taught to do everything as if we are doing it unto God. So when you go to work you are working for God not the employer. Many times we get our eyes on our careers but we should always keep in mind that we are working for the glory of God. So Paul says make the most of every opportunity. Look for opportunities to minister and do God's Word and when those doors open be obedient.
Speak to one another with Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs...
Exhort others! Share your testimonies of God's goodness and encourage others with God's Word. Rejoicing in the Lord stirs us to joy and the joy of the Lord is contagious. There are many around us who need to get there eyes off our trials and on to our joy, our hope in Christ.
Paul concludes this section with always give thanks. Paul teaches in other passages that we can be content in any situation. The Apostles were known for praising God even when they were being persecuted. They had truly learned that their hope was in Christ and not in the foundations of this world. This is a difficult task but let me encourage you today to thank God in spite of things that are discouraging you. That's right praise Him in advance because you know that you will always come out victorious in Christ. He has already bought our victory, He has fought our battles and we WIN. Practice praise and see if God doesn't lift your Spirit. Stir up your joy with praise and thanksgiving. We can all find something in which to be thankful for.
Praise Him!
- Pastor Larry
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