See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, (16) redeeming the time, because the days are evil.  (17) Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.  (18) And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit  (19) speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, (20) giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,

The letter to the Ephesians was written by the apostle Paul.  The subject of our verses today is Paul’s warning that Christians live as children of the light in an evil day and need to navigate with care – to live with purpose and intent and make the best use of our days.

We are saved in Christ and sealed in the Spirit; living conscious of the Spirit enables us to grow in spiritual maturity which is an ongoing process ending only in death.  Living in the Spirit means a constant and steady flow of grace/power to live a daily godly life – there are also moments of sudden special filling for special needs.  The filling of the Spirit is a habitual condition that we must seek as we cannot be removed from daily temptation battles.  There are situations in this world that require steadfast perseverance and we need to develope the habit of holiness.

Life in this world is based on circumstances that are constantly changing and without the Spirit we cope by by adopting a “move on, nothing to see here” attitude.  In faith and the Spirit we are learning to live what we are already in fact; adopted and accepted children of God.  We are learning to be free from a need for worldly approval and comfort and material success.  The Spirit teaches us, reminds us, enables us and speaks for us.