Together in Christ #21

Having talked here in Ephesians 5 about how important it is that we live lives of love and holiness, Paul summarizes and moves into his next way to walk worthy:

15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, 19 addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Simply put: What are we doing with our lives? Are we living like the Lord really exists and is our Lord? Can we and others see that the spirit of God is controlling our decisions, our words, our direction? Some of the ways we can make sure we are on track is to sing and speak scripture to God and one another - to meditate and encourage each other with truth, so we do not think speak or act unwisely. Another simple, yet profound way to change our behavior is thanksgiving; it helps plant seeds of contentment instead of covetousness, and keeps us from desiring the pleasures of evil that are so short-lived.  Most of all, if we will submit to one another, putting our wants under their needs, that will eradicate a lot of sinful behavior, and bring about much that pleases God. This last one is big, so we'll be talking about that the next few days.