Devotion • August 20
Today's Scripture
Ephesians 5:15–20
Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NRSV)
Reflection
The Bible has plenty of thou-shalt-not commandments, but there are so many thou-shall commandments as well. What would happen if we focused on what this scripture tells us to do, and we did it?
We want to be wise, but how do we do that? Gratitude is an important step. Give thanks for everything, scripture says. That’s a tall order! Sing words of encouragement and spiritual sustenance to each other. Also, sing those same songs in our hearts. Physical drunkenness won't lift us up, but spiritual intoxication might; be filled with the Spirit instead of spirits!
I’m noticing that wisdom isn’t something that we do alone. It’s a state that we arrive at together. The songs we sing in our hearts, the thoughts we think in our individual minds — they affect our spirits. But also the songs we sing “to one another” help us to live wise lives.
We’re told here to “make the most of time,” and to me that means remembering time and time again how much we have to be grateful for, even in times when we see evil around us. Sing and let the Spirit fill us.
Prayer
Gracious and Loving God, God of Power and Might, fill me with your Spirit of beauty, gratitude, and steadfastness. Make my heart to sing in your presence. Help me to sing to others of your strength, peace, and love. Amen.
Written by Nanette Sawyer, Associate Pastor for Discipleship and Small Group Ministry
Reflection © Fourth Presbyterian Church
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