In a world filled with distractions and temptations, how can we make the most of our limited time on earth? The Bible gives us clear guidance on living wisely in what Scripture calls "the present evil age." Understanding how to redeem our time is essential for every believer who wants to glorify God with their life.
The phrase "the days are evil" comes from Ephesians 5:16, where Paul instructs believers to "redeem the time, because the days are evil." But what exactly does "evil" mean in this context?
The root definition of evil is fascinating - it means "up from under." Across cultures and religions, there's a universal understanding that evil comes from below and moves toward us. It rises from the abyss and approaches to attack everything good, pure, and godly.
Evil is defined as:
James 3:13-18 contrasts heavenly wisdom with earthly wisdom:
This present age is described as evil because Satan is "the prince of the power of the air" whose mission is to "kill, steal, and destroy." We live in a time where evil actively works against God's purposes.
The Greek word for "time" used in Ephesians 5:16 is "kairos," which refers to:
To "redeem" means:
When Paul tells us to "redeem the time," he's instructing us to rescue each moment from being wasted and instead use it for God's glory. We're to make the most of every opportunity in this brief window between Christ's first and second coming.
Paul gives us three specific contrasts that show us how to walk wisely:
"See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." (Ephesians 5:15-16)
Wisdom comes from insight into God's Word. You cannot know God's will unless you get into His Word. Many Christians want to hear God's voice but aren't willing to read what He's already written.
Walking in wisdom means taking full advantage of every opportunity that comes our way. It's not enough to merely avoid evil—we must actively pursue good.
"Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is." (Ephesians 5:17)
Understanding God's will doesn't have to be complicated. His will is:
As the Westminster Confession states, "Man's chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever." If you're redeeming the time, God will reveal His specific will for your life.
"And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord." (Ephesians 5:18-19)
Paul contrasts two different influences:
When we're filled with the Spirit, our speech and attitudes change. We speak encouragement rather than criticism. We sing praises rather than complaints. We give thanks rather than grumbling.
The question we must all ask ourselves is simple: What am I doing with my time?
We each have a limited amount of time on this earth. Every day brings us closer to eternity. Are we using our time wisely, or are we wasting it on things that don't matter?
Here are some practical ways to redeem your time:
Get into God's Word daily - You won't know God's will unless you study His Word.
Live distinctly from the world - When unbelievers see you, they should notice a difference in how you respond to challenges.
Face trials with faith - Even in difficult circumstances, show the world that your hope is in something greater.
Release bitterness and anger - These emotions waste precious time and energy that could be used for God's glory.
Ask yourself these questions:
Remember, we don't know how long we have. Today is the day to commit to using your time wisely for God's glory. Ask Him for wisdom, grace, and the power of the Holy Spirit to help you make the most of your time on this earth