September 24
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“Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”  (Ephesians 5:15-16, NIV)

Some team sports practice a “two-minute drill” in hopes of making every second count in game day situations where time is short but scoring opportunities exist.

Paul encourages us to maintain a similar attitude in all of our living: Wisely “making the most of every opportunity,” because evil opposes us.

The eventual defeat of our opponent, the devil, is certain.  However, seasons are comprised of games, and games are comprised of plays.

Do all that you can — employing the wisdom that God freely offers — to make the most of every “play” to advance all that is good and holy; and to push-back the evil one and his misdeeds.

None of us knows how much time remains on the clock — either for the game, or for us.  Therefore, take advantage of every opportunity.  – Luther

 

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September 23
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“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”  (Galatians 6:7, NKJV)

We need to beware of thinking — as most of the world does — that because we have “gotten by” that we have, “gotten away.”

We sin, but because we have not immediately suffered the consequences of our sin, we wrongly think that God’s law is on holiday.  This is akin to thinking that just because we have, somehow, avoided being pulled-over by the sheriff for exceeding the speed limit, that it is somehow okay to exceed the speed limit.

Don’t be fooled: God’s law does stands forever!

God’s commandments are for our protection, and for our provision.  Just because we are successful in flouting God’s law does not mean that we are wise.  We shall be called to give an accounting, whether in joy because we have been found faithful; or in tears, because we have been found wanting.  – Luther

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September 22
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“People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life, but those who ignore correction will go astray.”  (Proverbs 10:17, NLT)

We, who have lived more than half of our allotted years, are at heightened risk of “going astray” in two basic ways: (1) Because we’ve “seen it all,” we are less open to a corrective word from someone else, especially if they are younger or less experienced than we, and; (2) people who can help us may be put-off when we don’t appear approachable or teachable.

Truth is truth, whether from the lips of an angel or from the mouth of a jackass (that is, the jackass of Numbers 22); and help is help, whether from a brother or from a stranger.

Work at being open to God’s discipline and His words of correction.  The Lord uses many personalities, agents, and circumstances to guide His people in the way that leads to life!  – Luther

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