When he comes to verse 20 here and speaks this unspeakable sentence In evil days, be thankful always for everything. He is not in a dream world where there's only holiness, only health, only easiness.

He knows what he's talking about and he only tells us to do what he has learned by the grace of God to do.

Life in this fall. to do.

Life in this fallen age is filled with tension. For example, how are we to live in evil days yet give thanks for everything.

In this episode of Light and Truth, John Piper examines Ephesions 5 v. 15 to 20 to provide understanding for this paradox in the Christian life.

This sermon was originally preached at Bethlehem Baptist Church on November 23rd, 1986.

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the most of the time because the days are evil.

Therefore do not be foolish but understand what the will of the Lord is and do not get drunk with wine for that is debauchery but be filled with the

spirit addressing one another in Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart, always

and for everything, giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father.

On the one hand it says watch carefully.

Be alert, be vigilant.

Apply wisdom, redeem the time, don't miss an opportunity, the days are evil, the opposition

is great, be wise as serpents, understand what the will of the Lord is, don't wreck your

mental powers with alcohol. you call that

you call that urgency?

Wouldn't you call that urgency?

It's like a platoon leader talking to his unit just before they go into battle.

And there's a tension in the air and the hearts are beating faster.

And even if you love the battle your palms are getting sweaty.

Watch out, be alert, know your enemy, know your God.

Take every opportunity to strike for good and defend yourself against the enemy.

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