Making Sense of Paul’s Letters for Everyday Life
Sometimes, life can feel confusing. It feels as though we are wandering through a dimly lit room. We bump into things and are not quite sure where we’re headed. In Ephesians 5:13-16, the apostle Paul gives us a wake-up call: Everything that light shines on is revealed. What gets lit up can itself become a light for others. This is why Paul says, “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” In other words, once we let God’s truth into our lives, it changes us. It also helps us guide others too.
Paul’s message is straightforward—don’t just drift through life. Pay attention to how you live. Don’t act foolishly or waste your time, because life is short and the world can be a tricky place. Make the most of every day. Be smart, stay aware, and remember that your choices matter.
Leave Old Habits Behind
Paul warns us to stay far away from things like greed, lust, and harmful talk. He isn’t just talking about the “big” sins. He’s saying that even the small stuff we might ignore or joke about can do real damage. These things aren’t harmless—they can poison our hearts and hurt the people around us.
He also points out that putting money or pleasure above God ends up empty. If we always chase more—more stuff, more thrills—we’re putting our trust in things that won’t last or satisfy. Instead, we’re called to rely on God and find our joy in living the way Jesus taught us.
Let God’s Light Change You
Paul says we don’t have to stay stuck in old ways. When we turn to God, even those who were farthest away can be transformed. It’s like coming out of a dark room into the sunlight. Suddenly everything is clearer. You can see where you’re going. Paul urges us: Don’t hide what’s wrong or pretend it’s okay. Let God’s light show you a better way, and don’t be afraid to encourage others to do the same.
Use Time Wisely
Another big point Paul makes is about time. He says time is a gift from God—something valuable that we shouldn’t waste. If you’ve wasted time in the past, don’t get stuck in regret. Instead, double down and use your days well now. Don’t get distracted by things that don’t matter; focus on living a life that means something.
Stay Alert and Thankful
Paul also talks about the danger of letting unhealthy habits take over, like drunkenness. These habits lead to more problems and keep us from living the way we should. When you’re overwhelmed or stressed, don’t turn to things that will just numb the pain or make matters worse. Instead, pray, ask for God’s help, and fill your heart with gratitude. There’s always something to thank God for, even on tough days.
Let Your Life Shine
Romans 12 and 13 continue this theme. Paul says to give yourself to God, not just part of you, but everything—your actions, your thoughts, your everyday life. Don’t be shaped by the world’s priorities. Let God transform you from the inside out, teaching you what’s good and true. We’re called to “put on” the armor of light. This means letting God’s character—love, patience, kindness, self-control—shape how we think, speak, and act.
Stay Ready, Stay Awake
Jesus himself tells us in Luke 21 to be alert. Life is full of distractions, and it’s easy to get caught up in things that don’t matter. We don’t know when our time will be up. It’s smart to live every day as if it matters because it does! Watch out for trouble, pray, and look for ways to do good. That way, whenever challenges come, or whenever God calls you, you’ll be ready.
The Bottom Line
In simple terms, Paul’s message is this: Let God’s light into your life, and let it shine through you. Make good choices, use your time well, and don’t get dragged down by bad habits or empty pursuits. Be grateful, help others, and walk forward with hope and purpose. That’s how you live as a “child of light,” and that’s how you make the most of every day.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 