Submit to One Another

 

“Walk Carefully” – Redeeming the Time in Evil Days (Ephesians 5:15-33)

Dear Friends, Paul now moves from general Christian living to very practical instruction on how we should walk as followers of Christ. He begins with a solemn and urgent appeal:

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16 ESV)

The word “carefully” means to walk with precision — like someone stepping through a minefield. We are not to drift through life thoughtlessly. Instead, we are called to live with deliberate wisdom, understanding what the will of the Lord is. Paul contrasts being drunk with wine (which leads to debauchery) with being filled with the Holy Spirit.

When we are filled with the Spirit, it shows itself in several beautiful ways:

• Speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs

• Singing and making melody to the Lord with our hearts

• Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father

• Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ

Paul then applies this Spirit-filled life to the most intimate human relationship — marriage. He gives clear instructions to wives and husbands that are often misunderstood today, but when seen in context, they are incredibly beautiful.

Wives are called to submit to their own husbands as to the Lord. Husbands are commanded to love their wives as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her. This is not a one-sided demand — it is mutual submission rooted in reverence for Christ. The husband’s love is to be sacrificial, sanctifying, and cherishing, just as Christ’s love is for His bride, the Church.

This passage is both challenging and encouraging. In an age of self-centred living, casual relationships, and easy divorce, God calls us to something far higher — marriages and lives that reflect the gospel.

Pause & Pray: Take time right now to be still before the Lord. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you afresh. Pray:

“Lord, help me to walk carefully and make the best use of my time. Fill me with Your Spirit so that my life overflows with worship, thankfulness, and loving submission. Teach me what it means to live as a reflection of Christ in my relationships.”

Verse to Remember: “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16 ESV)

Question to Consider: Are you making the best use of your time, or are you letting the days slip by thoughtlessly? In your closest relationships (marriage, family, church), are you living in a way that reflects the gospel — sacrificial love and willing submission? What is one practical step you can take this week to walk more wisely?

Article written by Shaun Fereday, Leader @SFGH Church