Tonight at Prayer Service, I was combing through my Bible app to find a passage I read earlier in the day. I couldn't find so I decided to go to one of my favorites, Ephesians 5:21. But on the way there I stumbled across this beauty.
Ephesians 5:15-20 (NIV translation)
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 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The text is really simple to grasp. It is easy to fall into the routine or trap of living our daily lives and not reverencing God. I am guilty of it too. That's why we, as Christians, are urged to be careful and not get caught up like the world. We are a peculiar people. We can relax, but have to keep watch because the enemy could strike at any time. This is not to say we have to live on the edge, but to be mindful of the company we keep.
Verse 18b urges us to be filled with the Spirit and speak to others in a friendly, loving manner. We should speak from the heart. I pray that God will bridle my tongue so that if I do not have anything nice to say, I will not speak at all. It may seem like I'm quiet, but I'm really exercising self control.
Finally, my dear brethren, we should always give thanks to God for everything. Yes everything. Give credit were credit is due. All credit goes to God. I cannot take credit for anything that I have done in my lifetime because God did it all. He worked and spoke through me. He is my eyes. He guides my hands and feet. He breathes air into my body each and everyday. I am learning and applying His Word to my life each day. I grow stronger because I am growing in Him and He is in me. Please remember, with everything you do, do it in the name of Jesus Christ.
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