JMD Devotional 260 Ephesians 5:15-17 Thoughtful Walk

Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise (sensible, intelligent people), making the very most of the time [buying up each opportunity], because the days are evil. Therefore do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish, but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is.

A big misconception is that planning is unspiritual. God gave us the mental faculty to order our steps, to make plans, to set a course. We are only admonished not to do these things disconnected from His Holy Spirit and influence. We also should not be disconnected from other believers and the Church; so much more good can be accomplished in concert with others; and we tend to keep each other on track and motivated. God distributes knowledge and spiritual gifts; relying on others is a true test of humility and in the faith that God is in control (not us). How we do things is as important as what we do; our attitude matters and it is influenced in a marvelous way: by music! Songs set the tempo, stir our hearts, lift our spirits, and get us in step with each other. In Old Testament times, the choir went before the army!

Vs 18-21 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but ever be filled and stimulated with the [Holy] Spirit. Speak out to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, offering praise with voices [and instruments] and making melody with all your heart to the Lord, at all times and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father.
Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).

Dear God,
I want to know Your will for my life. I know in part; that Jesus gave His life to establish the Church, and I am to contribute to Your Kingdom’s growth and well-being. I have a Gospel to share; that is only credible if I live the new life that I profess. Integrate me deeply into Your Kingdom, fill me with Your Holy Spirit, empower me through my connection with You and all believers, to do Your will. Give us all the mind of Christ. May heavenly melodies spur us to love and to good works.
Amen

All (but*) quotes are from The Amplified Bible, published by
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*New International Version (NIV)
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**Scripture taken from The Message. Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002. Used by permission of NavPress Publishing Group. (Eugene Peterson's easy-to-read, contemporary Scripture translation)

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