Redeeming the Time

Ephesians 5:16 - “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”

Introduction

Time, an irreplaceable gift, slips through our fingers with startling ease. In the relentless rhythm of daily life, it's easy to become ensnared by the noise and chaos, forgetting that each moment holds the potential to shape our destiny. The apostle Paul, in Ephesians 5:16, urges us to "redeem the time," recognising that while time is fleeting, it holds immeasurable value in the divine economy. The world’s distractions are many, but we are called not merely to exist within them, but to rise above, stewarding every moment for God’s glory and eternal purposes. Every breath, every decision, is a chance to invest in what lasts beyond the temporal, honouring the sacred in the ordinary.

The "evil" Paul refers to is not just outright wickedness, but the pervasive influence of sin and distractions that pull us away from our divine purpose. The days are "evil" because they are marked by a constant battle against forces that seek to divert our attention from what is eternal, luring us into complacency, self-indulgence, or apathy. In such a world, where societal pressures and our own desires can lead us astray, Paul calls us to "redeem" the time—using it wisely, with intention, and with a focus on God’s will. To redeem it is to deliberately choose to live in alignment with God’s purpose, advancing His kingdom and reflecting His glory, despite the distractions that surround us.

The Importance of Time

Life is fleeting. The Psalmist reminds us in Psalm 90:12, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Our time on earth is limited, and each moment is an opportunity to live out God’s plan for our lives. James 4:14 tells us, “What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” We cannot afford to waste it.

How We Waste Time

It’s easy to waste time, especially when we don’t approach each day with intentionality. Some of the ways we waste time include:

Distraction – We get caught up in entertainment or activities that do not contribute to our growth or God’s kingdom. Luke 21:34 warns, “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life...”

Procrastination – We delay doing the things that matter, especially the work God calls us to do. Proverbs 6:9-11 challenges, “How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep?”

Idleness – Idleness can subtly creep into our lives, often disguised as rest or relaxation, but when it becomes a pattern, it can lead to a neglect of the gifts and talents God has entrusted to us. 

Each of us has been uniquely equipped with abilities, passions, and resources meant to be used for His purposes. When we choose to avoid diligent work, whether out of procrastination, complacency, or distraction, we waste precious opportunities to cultivate and develop these gifts. Idleness not only hinders our personal growth but also deprives the world of the good that could come through our active participation. Scripture calls us to be good stewards of what we’ve been given, and in doing so, we honour God, fulfilling the purpose He has set before us. To neglect this calling is to squander the very essence of who we are meant to be, allowing our potential to lie dormant rather than flourish. 2 Thessalonians 3:10 reminds us, “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”

Maximizing Time

If we’re to redeem the time, we must maximize its value. Here’s are some ways of doing it:

Live with Purpose – Every task, big or small, should be done for God’s glory. Ask yourself: Is this activity furthering God’s kingdom? Is it contributing to spiritual growth? Colossians 3:23 teaches, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”

Prioritize Relationships – Spend time nurturing your relationship with God and with others. These relationships have eternal significance. 1 Corinthians 13:13 says, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

Work Diligently – Be diligent in your responsibilities and use your time wisely. Don’t waste it on things that don’t matter in the long run. Proverbs 14:23 says, “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.”

Rest Well – Rest is as important as work. God designed us to work and to rest, so don’t neglect the need for regular times of renewal. Exodus 20:8-10 commands, “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labour and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God.”

Guiding Principles in Time Management

Seek God’s Will – Begin each day by seeking God’s guidance on how He wants you to spend your time. Make His priorities your priorities. Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Live Wisely – Be intentional about how you live. Don’t allow yourself to be swept along by the current of distractions and worldly desires. Ephesians 5:15-16 says, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”

Be Accountable – Regularly evaluate how you’re spending your time. Are you making progress toward the things that matter most? Are you living out your purpose in Christ? Luke 16:10 – “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.”

Invest in Eternity – Keep your focus on what lasts forever. Invest in the things that have eternal value, like your relationship with God and spreading the gospel. Matthew 6:19-21 – “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth... But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the precious gift of time. Help me to make the most of each day, seeking Your will above all else. Teach me to live with purpose, to prioritize what matters, and to invest my time in things that have eternal significance. Guide me to redeem the time, because the days are evil, and help me to honor You with every moment. In Jesus' name, Amen.