33 | Ephesians 5
Scripture:
Primary Text: Ephesians 5:1-20
Supplemental Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Romans 12:2, Ephesians 4, Psalm 90:12,17
Observations & Applications:
- Wisdom is defined as having experience, knowledge, and good judgement. Who is the wisest person you know? How have they demonstrated wisdom in their life?
- “Be very careful then how you live...” (v15) If we look at time as a currency, how does this verse change the way you view the time you have been given?
- “...not as unwise people, but as wise...” (v.15) What major decisions are before you right now? How can you make a decision that allows you to live as a wise person?
- What does it look like to follow God’s example and walk in the way of love each day? At work? At home with your family? At school?
- What challenges you the most from these verses? Why are the things listed in these verses unwise or foolish?
- Read Ephesians 5:16 again.
- “...making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (v. 16) How does this truth change the sense of urgency with which you live?
- What are some ways you have found yourself “sleeping” in your walk?
- Read Ephesians 5:17 again.
- This verse tells us to “understand what the Lord’s will is.” How do 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 and Romans 12:2 help clarify God’s will?
- What would you like to see God do in and through your life on earth? What small step can you take towards that today?
Prayer:
Pray Psalm 90:17: “May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands.”
Lord, give our mind the ability to clearly see the example you set forth for us in Your Word on how we should be living. Help us to follow you one day at a time and one step at a time in a wise manner. We want to live in confidence that we are at the center of your will, so would You show us what our next step should be? Thank you, Lord, for Your faithfulness.
Key Words:
Wisdom: having experience, knowledge, and good judgment
Resources:
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
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