Walk wisely toward them that are without, and redeem the season.
Colossians 4:5 (GNV Translation Ed. 1599)
Take heed therefore that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise.
Ephesians 5:15 (GNV Translation Ed. 1599)
In the mighty name of Jesus; Greetings and good morning
Before we start, note the two words; circumspectly, and redeem, as defined by Webster’s Dictionary Ed. 1828 & 1913 and meditate upon them, by putting them into the context of today’s commentary.
Circumspectly - Cautiously; with watchfulness every way; with attention to guard against surprise or danger
Redeem - To save, (and by extension to accumulate a non-material object) (a), example - time - therefore to redeem time, is to use more diligence in the improvement of it; to be diligent and active in duty and preparation.
Over the past few posts we have been seeing a common thread that being for the Christian believer to walk and live in the spirit as required and defined by God. The Apostle Paul exhorts us to do so, and likewise gives reason to act in said manner.
Firstly, as mentioned previously the carnal world is watching, and watching continuously. It is looking to see the believer in the light of their own making, that is to say, acting in a worldly manner, or to use the vernacular, see if we slip up. We must jealously guard ourselves against this as much as we strongly can at all times. It is this writer’s personal opinion that they love to see it happen, as it brings one down to their level, that is to the following of the flesh, as opposed to them seeking a higher level, that of the Spirit. This is not to say the believer is elitist, in fact quite the opposite is true, for we are to be servants. This however brings us to the second point, which is the making the best use of our time and opportunities to bring the lost into the fold.
When those of the world see us acting in a manner that glorifies our Father, (in all that we do), they wonder about us. Sometimes, it is thought that they envy us, our peace, and strengths. We are not tossed to and fro (b), in the storms of life, as a rudderless ship upon the ocean, but are anchored firmly in our belief of God. It is during those times, that we should seek opportunity to let them know as to how we can be in such a condition. Sometimes all one does is plant a seed, and sometimes one might water, and at other times one might harvest, but all, are doing the work of the Savior.
(a) Parentheses mine
(b) Ephesians 4:14
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