Because the Days are Evil

Scripture: Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk - not as unwise people but as wise - making the most of the time, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16

Observation: This is an interesting phrase - 'the days are evil.' It can have two basic interpretations. One is that every day brings evil with it. The other is that the times in which one lives are evil. While in both cases Paul is warning the church in Ephesus - and us - to be wise in how we live, there are different connotations about the dangers that will come.

If every day brings unique issues, then the challenge is to actively apply God's word in our lives to new circumstances every day. New issues will arise, and we must understand God's laws and instructions in order to avoid temptations.

If the current times are problematic, then the challenge is to hold fast to our faith and not waiver in the face of cultural and popular pressure. We must understand God's will for our lives and be able to apply it despite continual messages that undermine God's truth.

Of course ... both are true today.

Application: The timeless issues of the early church, and how closely they apply to today's world, is fascinating. For wildly different reasons, the first Christians faced cultural pressures that fought against God's word, very similar to the "western world" today. This always makes Paul's letters so pointed toward current situations.

Today, I will face unique issue. I will face pressure that requires peace and love, or else I will grow angry and sin. I will think ill of others for their decisions, and judge them without knowing their circumstances. I will grow mentally weary and not be able to give of myself when someone needs kindness.

Today, I will read the news. I will learn of racial conflict that speaks of man's willingness to hate their neighbors. I will receive information about the systemic violations of marriage and sexual morality in conflict with God's will for human relationships. I will hear someone speak on tolerance of belief systems and push the creator of the universe completely out of the picture of the world.

And I will need God's grace, love, and strength - his full armor - to endure.

Prayer: Lord, just like Paul suggested, I ask for your full armor. Please protect my heart, my head, my soul, my body. May I obey your word and your will this day and every day. Help me, please, make the most of the time today. Because the days are evil. Amen.