Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Let God be the First Choice
Ephesians 5:15-21
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) 
 
Growing up, much of my parent’s conversation with me was about making the right decisions in life. Whether it was about the friends I made, the college and career I chose, whom I married or what I did with my money and time, my parents constantly reminded with me to make those decisions keeping God number one in my life. As a child, I listened, became annoyed, said "yes mummy" and walked away. Now as a young adult, those same conversations have become part of what shaped me and continue to play a role in my decision making each day.
Make the best use of opportunities: Paul here reminds us of the world we live in He gives us guidelines to living, instructing us to not be foolish, rather to live according to the spirit of God. He reminds us to use every opportunity we are give and make the most of it. The difference between a wise person and a foolish person is often in the opportunities they use or misuse. Foolish people ignore God when given a chance to experience His presence. The desire to know God is often missing in their lives. The foolish indulge in things of this world and allow the world to influence them. Like a drunkard, intoxicated by alcohol, the foolish are intoxicate by the world. The wise persons on the other hand, seeks every opportunity given to them not resting until they finds their purpose in life. The wise person longs to be in God's presence and prays to be filled with the spirit.
Identify God's purpose in our life: What opportunities will God place before you today? When your neighbors are suffering, you have an opportunity to pray for them. Natural disasters around us give us an opportunity to serve and unite as one under God. A homeless man on the subway, during your morning commute, is an opportunity for you to be set apart and assist with money or a kind word. After having a hearty meal, it may be an opportunity to feed those who are hungry. After we read the Bible we have an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus with those who have yet to hear. There are tons of decisions we make every day. Let's make sure we are honoring God in the decisions we make today and the opportunities we use or misuse. God has a purpose for you and me today. He may be asking for our yes, in a special place at a special time.
 
Prayer:
Holy Spirit, keep me alert of the opportunities around me today. Use me Father to be the light in this dark world. When decisions are before me Lord, give me the wisdom and courage to do what is right in your eyes. May Your will be done. Amen
 
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Those who leave everything in God's hands will ultimately find him in everything.

Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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