Steps of How to no fall into idlness: pt. 2

This is a continuation of last weeks study of Ephesians 5:15--17

We saw how you first need to be careful how you walk- This being careful is observing and looking at your surroundings but not physically but spirirtually. There is Satan with the snares of sin to get us to stumble on our Christian walk.

Second, we need to be wise and not unwise. When we are careful we are wise and we know that because of Jesus' death and resurrection we have an understanding of truth and should trust that when we walk.

Third, we need to not be idle but make the best use of our time because the days are evil and fleeting. The wordage in the Greek is talking about a person working in the market and making the best use of their time so they could make the most money for their time. We need to realize that is what we are living for (not the money) but for using the time for God's. I think of the Parable of the Laborers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1--6).

Fourth, understand what the will of the Lord is. If we get entangled in this world we are not in the Lord's will. You can always see who is in the Lord's will by how they handle trials in their life. In order to be careful in our walk we need to be in the Lord's will.

Fifth, do not get drunk with wine but fill of the spirit. As Paul is not getting in a drinking argument but he is saying what we should be filled with instead. Today we may not personally have the drinking of wine to fill us but we get our lives filled with drama, our pride, issues that we do not make the most of every opportunity. (Read Romans 13:13--14).

As Paul is striving for the Ephesians to have this life lived for the Lord. In all things we need to put on Christ and make sure that he is at the front of our thoughts and desires.

Being idle creates ways for us to fall into sin and we need to be aware. Next week part 3.

PJ