Ephesians 5:16 instructs us to be “redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
Time is one of the most precious resources God has given us, and as His followers, we are called to make the most of every moment.
But what does it mean to redeem the time?
To redeem the time means to make wise use of every opportunity, to buy back time that might otherwise be wasted.
We live in a world where distractions and empty entertainment are abundant, and it’s easy to let precious moments slip away.
Yet, Paul reminds us that the days are evil, meaning that we are surrounded by influences that can lead us astray and cause us to misuse our time.
As dear children of God, we must approach our days with intention and purpose.
Just as a child must be taught to use their time wisely—whether it’s doing homework, chores, or other responsibilities they probably don’t desire to do—we too must learn to prioritize what truly matters.
The Bible gives us guidance on how to redeem our time:
- Seek God First:
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
Making time for God and His purposes should be our top priority. Whether it’s through prayer, Bible study, or serving others, these activities have eternal value and help us stay aligned with God’s will. Keeping God first place in our life allows us to redeem our time.
- Avoid Wasting Time on Foolishness:
Proverbs 12:11 tells us, “He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.”
Time wasted on trivial or sinful pursuits is time lost forever. We must be careful not to spend our time on things that have no lasting value. This doesn’t mean we can’t do fun or entertaining things. However, we must be guarded that our days aren’t all filled with play and we never get anything that the Lord values.
- Make the Most of Every Opportunity:
Colossians 4:5 instructs us to “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.”
This means being mindful of the opportunities God gives us to share His gospel with others and to live out our faith with eternity in mind.
- Remember Life is Short:
Psalm 90:12 says, “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”
When we recognize that our time on earth is limited, it encourages us to make wise decisions and focus on God.
In a world filled with distractions, redeeming the time requires discipline and a constant awareness of how we are using the moments God has given us. It’s about making the most of every opportunity ensuring we glorify God, grow in our faith, and reach souls for Christ.
As followers of God, let us be mindful of how we spend our time. Let’s strive to walk wisely, avoiding the traps of idleness and distraction, and instead, making each day count for eternity. By redeeming the time, we reflect the wisdom and purpose that God desires for us as His dear children.
