So then, be careful how you walk, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

All superhero movies attach a certain amount of urgency to the responsibilities the heroes have been given. To be successful as heroes, they can’t lose sight of their mission even when the odds are stacked against them. Paul told the Ephesians the days were evil and not to bring the people to despair or anger with their present circumstances but encouraged them to press into God and make the most of the time they were given. Our mission to live as followers of Jesus and share Him with others is not easy. Sometimes it feels like the odds are stacked against us, but when we consider Jesus and the hope He brings the world, we cannot let a day go by without investing in His mission.

Be encouraged today. God has a purpose for your life and a way He wants to use you in the year to come. The question is, are you looking for it? Do you see your coworkers as an opportunity to build friendships and share the love of Christ or as distractions from getting work done? Do you see your children as little disciples to cultivate or little rebels to wrangle? As Paul encouraged the church in Ephesus, be careful how you walk! God can work in the big picture of your New Year’s resolutions, but He will also work in the day-to-day, directing you in His purpose as you pursue Him.

• What would it look like to live with urgency each day for the mission God has given you?
• How should knowing God has a purpose for your life change the way you make plans?
• Pray and ask God for discernment to understand how to make the most of the time He has given you.