With each year that passes by, we become more and more aware that life is short. The fleeting nature of life is not just found in illness and accidents; even those who live “long” lives realize that so much is left undone, unsaid, and unaccomplished. As he instructed the Ephesians Christians on how to live, Paul used the shortness of life as a reminder to them (and to us) to live our lives to the fullest. According to the Scriptures, that means living in light of eternity and in light of the greatness of the Lord. We are called to live wisely, taking advantage of each day we are given. We are to live in the power of the Spirit, with joy, thanksgiving, and perspective. For the believer who has been redeemed by Christ, there is no other way to live than to live a life of “Walking Wisely” (Ephesians 5:15-21).

I. What Does it Mean to Be Wise?
A. Make the Most of Time
B. Understand God’s Will
C. Be in Control

II. What Does it Mean to Be Filled with the Spirit?
A. To Be Joyful
B. To Be Thankful
C. To Be Submissive

Questions for consideration: (1) What are the ways that you waste time? Why do you do that? What efforts can you make to redeem your own time? (2) What in life makes you joyful? Why do you think joy is such an important part of worship? (3) Why does the Bible tell us to be submissive? What is to be gained by others seeing that trait in us? What areas of life are hardest for you to submit?