Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. (Eph. 5:15–16)
Expanded Passage: Ephesians 5:15-21
Everyone knew going to the moon was dangerous. It involved strapping three people to the top of a massive explosion and sending them for a week into the literal vacuum of space. On January 27, 1967, however, the reality of that danger was driven home when astronauts Gus Grissom, Ed White, and Roger Chaffee were killed in a fire during a prelaunch test. Investigators discovered the technical causes of the tragedy and made appropriate changes. However, the most shocking discovery was the contribution of planners’ attitudes toward the test. Namely, the team lacked the equipment needed to fight the fire, numerous obstacles made it difficult to respond to the emergency, and medical teams were not even present. In short, NASA was careless.
When Paul advised the Ephesians to “be very careful . . . how you live,” the word he used did not convey a sense of timidity or caution. Indeed, Christians must often be bold and courageous. Rather, the word he used carried the ideas of exactness, accuracy, and diligence. In effect, the apostle was saying that Christians must pay attention to ensure their lives are aligned as perfectly as possible with God’s wisdom, which encompasses all of God’s character and commands.
As NASA learned the hard way, bad things happen when people are careless. The same is true for Christians. Believers must, therefore, be very careful to follow God’s example in the way they live.
Be very careful to align your life with God’s wisdom.
Jeremy Geerdes is a pastor in Des Moines, Iowa. He is passionate about holiness and his family.
© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
