“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 spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.” – Ephesians 5:15–21 (ESV)
👀 Walk with Wisdom
Paul begins with an appeal to intentionality: “Look carefully then how you walk…” In other words, don’t stumble through life. Be alert. Pay attention. Your life is not a random sequence of events—it is a sacred opportunity to reflect Christ.
He contrasts two paths: “not as unwise, but as wise.” Wisdom in Scripture is not just knowledge—it’s skillful living according to God’s truth. To be wise is to see life from God’s perspective and respond accordingly.
⏳ Redeem the Time
Paul continues, “making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” The phrase “making the best use” literally means to redeem or buy back. Time is a precious resource we can’t afford to waste.
We live in “evil days”—times marked by distraction, sin, and cultural decay. That makes our calling all the more urgent. Every moment matters. Don’t drift—decide. Don’t coast—commit. Use time with eternity in mind.
🧠 Don’t Be Foolish—Seek God’s Will
“Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Foolishness isn’t simply being uninformed—it’s choosing to ignore God’s revealed will. Wise believers pursue clarity, not confusion.
God’s will is not a hidden riddle—it is revealed in His Word and made known through His Spirit. A wise life is one that aligns daily choices with eternal truth.
🍷 Don’t Be Drunk—Be Filled with the Spirit
This verse contrasts two kinds of influence: alcohol and the Holy Spirit. “Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery…” Drunkenness leads to loss of control, distorted judgment, and destructive choices.
“But be filled with the Spirit…” Here’s the key command. The verb implies ongoing, continual action—keep being filled. This isn’t about getting more of the Spirit—it’s about the Spirit getting more of us. His presence should influence our thoughts, guide our actions, and shape our relationships.
🎶 What the Spirit-Filled Life Looks Like
Paul shows us the visible expressions of a life filled with the Spirit:
- Speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs – Spirit-filled believers encourage one another through worship and truth.
- Singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord – personal worship is not just external but inward and joyful.
- Giving thanks always and for everything – gratitude is a mark of God’s presence. Complaining is replaced by praise.
- Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ – humility and honor characterize Spirit-filled relationships.
This is not emotional hype or mystical behavior. Being filled with the Spirit looks like joy, unity, gratitude, and mutual respect—rooted in Jesus.
📣 What This Means for Us Today
1. Live Like Time Is Sacred
You don’t get to rewind the clock. Every day is a gift and a responsibility. Don’t let entertainment, distraction, or complacency rob you of what matters most.
2. The Holy Spirit Should Direct Your Life
What controls you? What shapes your reactions, decisions, and tone? Let the Holy Spirit fill you so completely that there’s no room left for the flesh to take over.
3. Worship Is a Lifestyle
Spirit-filled people don’t just sing on Sundays. Their hearts are tuned to praise daily—in conversation, in gratitude, in how they treat others. This is true worship in motion.
📣 Reflection and Application
- ⏳ How wisely am I using the time God has given me?
- 🕊️ Am I filled with the Spirit—or is something else influencing my life more?
- 🎵 Does my life speak, sing, and submit in a way that reflects the presence of Jesus?
🛐 Prayer
Father, teach me to walk wisely—not foolishly. Help me to redeem the time, live with purpose, and reflect Your will in every decision. Fill me with Your Spirit. Let my life overflow with worship, gratitude, and grace toward others. Make me a reflection of Christ in a world that desperately needs light. In Jesus’ name, amen.
📌 Coming Up Next
Ephesians 5:22–33 — What Does Christlike Marriage Look Like?
In the next post, Paul explains how the gospel shapes the marriage relationship. We’ll explore what it means for husbands to love like Christ and for wives to reflect the Church in joyful submission.
