"See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise,  redeeming the time, because the days are evil."-Ephesians 5:15-16

Definitions:

• Circumspect- careful to consider all circumstances and possible consequences. (Merriam Webster Dictionary)
• Redeem-to rescue from loss, making the most. (Strong's Greek Dictionary)

     As women of God we understand that there is more to life then what meets the eye. To some degree or another we understand that our physical bodies, our possessions, our time here on earth is temporal. Hebrews 11 speaks of men and women who lived their lives in light of eternity. Verses 13-15 says, "All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance,admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth.People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them."


These men and women lived with eternity set before them. Although we understand this truth, it's easy to get caught up in worldly affairs. These things may not necessarily be bad. Maybe it's a new job or school. Or maybe it's a new relationship, or a wedding ; ) Truth is there are many things in this life that can cause us to take our eyes off Jesus. In fact, this is exactly what the enemy wants. Paul  exhorts the Ephesian believers to live carefully. The word circumspectly used in this verse means to consider all circumstances and possible consequences.  As I read this scripture I'm challenged to question what I say and do before I do them. Are the words that come out of my mouth tearing people down or are they building people up? Does my lifestyle line up with the Word of God? Am I causing people to stumble by my actions? Am I pointing people to Christ or turning them away from Him? 

We are to walk and live our lives with wisdom not foolishly. A little easier said then done but praise God we have the Holy Spirit. When we listen, obey and let Him lead us He makes it possible for us. But in all honesty this may not always be easy. We may find ourselves struggling with our flesh to do what the spirit desires. I encourage you sisters...don't fight it and trust the Lord.

... redeeming the time (making the most) because the days are evil. 
     
Ladies,  DO NOT sleep we are at war.  The days are evil. This year has been filled with some amazing highs but at the same time I've experienced some crippling lows. It wasn't until recent that I realized I've been in a midst of a war completely unprepared. 

Paul tells the Ephesians to put on the full armor of God, so that they can stand against the devils schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:11-12

Let us make most of our time because we're living in a world that opposes cross. As we work out our salvation be aware there is an enemy waiting for the opportune time to attack. Let us be awake and live wisely.

You represent Christ to a world who does not know Him. You are a light in darkness. Shine!

Father,
   I lift of my sisters to you and pray that they would abide in you and yield to your Holy Spirit. Give them a greater reality of eternity. Fill them with wisdom as they make decisions everyday and give them the grace to live circumspectly. I pray that their lives will bring you Glory. In Jesus name! Amen!