… because the days are evil.
Summary: Like so many words, there are different meanings for “evil.” In this case Paul might as well have said “because the days are difficult.”
What does it mean that the “days are evil?” (It sounds like this verse should be the title of an Agatha Christie novel.)
It’s phrases like this that make me thankful for tools like Strong’s Concordance. Like an English dictionary, there are often more than one definition for a word and more than one word for a meaning. Sometimes, looking at the context of a word’s usage can help us get a better picture of what Paul was thinking.
The word for “evil” used here is a word that Strong’s Concordance describes as meaning ”full of labors, annoyances, hardships.” (STRONGS G4190) This is not the same kind of “evil” that describes someone who chooses to rebel against God and indulge in degenerate behavior. Its also different than those who rebel against God and delight in asserting their control over other people.
Paul’s complete sentence reads:
“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)
“Good days” are days filled with laughter, friends, plenty of food, and godly enjoyment. A “good day” is when the work is all done, and the world is at peace. The opposite of a “good day” is an “evil” one.
When the days are evil, there is no peace, it is not safe, and there is much to be done. When Paul wrote his letter to the Ephesians, he was probably a prisoner in Rome awaiting trial. Paul knew firsthand what made the days evil. He knew the danger of following Jesus. He understood the power of God to prick men’s consciences with the truth and responses that were often provoked (Acts 28: 11-31).
Life is hard. Solomon himself noted that “all things are wearisome, more than one can say.” (Ecclesiastes 1:8) So, how can we as believers find joy in this life?
When Paul writes, “Be very careful, then, how you live …” he reminds us that the life we live is a new one in Jesus Christ (John 3:3). We are not our own (1 Corinthians 6:19). So then, the life we live here is not for our pleasure, but for God’s.
Application: Expect things in this world to be a challenge, and you won’t be disappointed.
Food for Thought: How does our relationship with Jesus help us through difficult times?
08-28-2023, How does our relationship with Jesus help us through difficult times?
We are eternal, spiritual beings. We are confined to dying bodies, existing in a fallen, broken world. We often face heartache, intimidation, and what seem to be impossible obstacles. As children of God, we are saved and secure in Jesus, never beyond the reach of His encouragement which may come through scripture, prayer or the perfectly timed words of a fellow believer or loved one. God uses all circumstances to raise our spirits and increase our trust in Him and will speak directly to us if necessary for our growth in all circumstances.
Joseph the dreamer, Moses, David, Jeremiah, Job, Peter, Paul, Ruth, Mary mother of Jesus, Hanna mother of Samuel, Jesus Christ. Everyone in the Bible faced and came through difficult times as they placed their trust in God to bring them through all circumstances.
John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
1 Corinthians 10:13, No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
Thank you, Ron!
Very beautifully written and very encouraging. 🙂
How does our relationship with Jesus help us through difficult times?
We are able to tell Jesus about what troubles us and hold fast to the fact that He understands our difficulties and will guide us through them.
Hebrews 4:14-16 ESV Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Thanks Chris,
Like a blind man on a foggy night crossing a busy street, we need a guide – we need Jesus!
God’s word promises that we will have difficult times, trials and even persecution (Matthew 5: 10 – 12; 2 Timothy 3: 12 James 1: 2 – 4). Our relationship with Jesus gives us an anchor in the storm that creates stability in a volatile and dangerous world. Jesus said as much – Matthew 7: 24 – 27.
Excellent verses, Rich.
Thank you!!