Rev. Richard Smith
January 12, 2020
Ephesians 5:15-16
Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity…
I have for a long time appreciated this verse from the Apostle Paul…live not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity. With Paul’s assertion as a foundation, I want to offer five principles by which we can live wisely, joyfully, and in sync with God’s desire.
- Be Accepting Of Life’s Unpredictability
When we assume that life is going to unfold just the way we want, then we are setting ourselves up for deep disappointment. James, the brother of Jesus, reminds us in 4:14, None of us really know what will happen tomorrow.
Go into each day wisely, understanding that we cannot control all that happens. But, also, remember that we never face any day alone. God always walks with us!
2. Treat Each Person As A Child Of God
Jesus said, So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them (Matthew 7:12).
When we view other persons as children of God, then we are going to live the golden rule and reap the blessings of inner peace.
This doesn’t naively mean that all our interactions and relations will be hunky-dory, but it does mean we are giving us and others a chance for civil and collegial living.
3. Draw On God’s Empowerment
As I noted Monday (and in point 1), God stands ready to sustain us, guide us, and empower us. We just need to open ourselves to his sustaining presence through worship, prayer, study, and reflection.
As we practice these spiritual disciplines, God speaks to us and we do indeed feel and realize his divine support.
4. Grow Where You Need To Grow
Each of us has practices, behaviors, and attitudes which betray the kind of life God wants us to live. We all need to do some personal spiritual inventory and discern what we can do, with God’s help, to be clearer examples of Jesus-centered folks.
Growth can involve changing a habit; or taking on a new practice; or redefining our priorities; or giving up an emotional response.
God is ever ready to strengthen us in our journey of renewal! Without question, the more we are like God wants us to be, the happier we are!
5. Live Generously
Without question, the life ethic of Jesus places a premium on living generously. And, in turn, we experience the spiritual and emotional bounty generosity inevitably brings. As Luke notes, Give, and it will be given to you (6:38). Then there’s the writer of Proverbs who says, The generous will themselves be blessed (22:9).
