Ephesians 5:15–16 in the King James Version says, “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” The phrase redeeming the time is also found in Colossians 4:5: “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time” (KJV). In both passages, redeeming the time is related to wisdom in how we “walk,” that is, in how we live. Amen.
To redeem something means to buy it back, to regain possession of it. Time is a gift from GOD, and none of us know how much of it we are allotted. Only GOD knows how much time each of us has on this earth to make decisions that will impact eternity (Psalms 139:16). When GOD says we should be “redeeming the time,” He wants us to live in constant awareness of that ticking clock and make the most of the time we have. In fact, the NIV’s translation of Ephesians 5:16 uses the phrase making the most of every opportunity instead of redeeming the time. Rather than waste our days on frivolous pursuits that leave no lasting imprint, Scripture instructs us to be diligent about doing good (Titus 3:8) and proving to be fruitful in HIS sight (John 15:5). If we take it a step further, (John 15:6) reminds us of the everlasting penalty for not living by the Instructions given by GOD in the O.T. (Deuteronomy 7:11) and JESUS CHRIST in the N.T. …. “If a man abide not in ME, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned”.
The context of the command to redeem the time helps us understand what redeeming the time looks like and why it’s important: “Be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the LORD wants you to do. Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life” (Ephesians 5:15–18, NLT). Redeeming the time means that we are careful in how we live. We seek out and employ wisdom (see Proverbs 2:1–15). We seize every opportunity and use it for GOD’s glory in JESUS name !. We think through our plans and make sure they align with GOD’s will. And we avoid empty, harmful activities such as getting drunk, Pornography, Adultery etc…The lusts of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21). Why are we to live this way? “Because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:16). We must overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21).
If you don’t know what plans JESUS has for you…Suggestion. Find a quiet place, no distractions, get on your knees and pray like there is no tomorrow. For tomorrow is not promised. Ask the LORD what he has for you…
JESUS taught HIS disciples the necessity of redeeming the time: “We must work the works of HIM who sent ME while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work” (John 9:4). JESUS was diligent about keeping to HIS mission. Distractions were as prevalent then as they are now, but HE let none of them deter HIM from preaching and teaching GOD’s Word. That was why HE had come (Luke 4:43). Though He spent only 33 years on this earth, JESUS changed the world forever because HE redeemed the time.
Again, We can learn to redeem the time by becoming conscious of the fact that we may not have another day. The song “Live Like You Were Dying” by Tim McGraw is about redeeming the time. While its focus is on pursuing earthly passions in the time we have left, the lyrics make an important point. They conclude with this thought: “Someday I hope you get the chance, to live like you were dying.” As Christians, we should live like we were dying and pursue all JESUS has given us to do while we have time. Everything done for CHRIST JESUS on earth earns eternal rewards (Mark 9:41). That which was done for selfish, carnal reasons will burn up and blow away (1 Corinthians 3:12–15).
Another way we can learn to redeem the time is by asking JESUS to help us. We should start every morning by committing our day to the LORD and asking HIM to help us do something that day that has eternal significance. By beginning our day with eternity in mind, we become more aware of spiritual stimulation in our hearts. We look for ways we can honor the LORD, help someone else, or utilize our time in productive ways. Sitting at a red light, we can pray for our neighbor. Mopping the floor, we can worship JESUS in song. At a restaurant, we can leave an extra big tip along with a gospel tract or a card TALKING ABOUT the road to Eternal Salvation. We can evaluate our gifts and interests and find ways to invest them for GOD’s kingdom. Volunteering, visiting hospitals to pray over the sick and dying, leading a ministry, taking Bible instruction to the jails and prisons, and studying to show ourselves “approved unto GOD” are all ways we can redeem the time (2 Timothy 2:15, KJV).
James 4:14 reminds us that our earthly lives are no more than a vapor that appears for such a short time and then quickly evaporates. Our money and possessions will be given to someone else. Our jobs will be filled by others. Our families may remember us with fondness but will move on with lives that don’t include us. All that remains of our lives on earth is that which was invested in eternity. Hopefully, we made an impression on those around us, telling them that only JESUS is the way ! In the end, all that matters is what we did or did not do to redeem the time (Psalm 102:3; 144:4).
It is up to each individual to come to JESUS, ask for forgiveness, repent, make sure you are ‘Born Again” (water baptized) as an adult of free will, and pursue the most important concern in your life, seeking a relationship with JESUS CHRIST.
Failure to do so would be the horror of horrors, eternal damnation.
Reach out to us if you need help, assistance, or Instruction. We can get you started on the right path. But it is up to you. GOD bless in JESUS name, Amen.