January 2
Living Wisely:
Making the Most of Every Moment
“So be very careful how you live. Do not live like people who aren’t wise. Live like people who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity. The days are evil.”
Ephesians 5:15-16 (NIrV)
Carlos was a young entrepreneur with big dreams but an even busier schedule. Between running his small café and managing social media marketing for local businesses, his days blurred into a hectic cycle. Despite his success, Carlos often felt unfulfilled, as if life was slipping through his fingers while he chased deadlines and profits.
One Friday afternoon, Carlos walked past a local park on his way to a meeting. He noticed a group of children laughing as they played soccer, their joy contagious and unrestrained. His mind flashed back to when he used to spend weekends volunteering at his church’s youth group, sharing Bible stories and teaching games. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d done something simply because it brought him joy or helped others.
That evening, Carlos stared at his overflowing planner. Deep down, he knew he was filling his life with busyness but missing purpose. He opened his Bible app and came across Ephesians 5:15-16. The words struck him like lightning. “Be very careful how you live,” it read. Was he living wisely? He wasn’t so sure anymore.
Carlos decided to pray. “Lord, show me how to make better use of my time. Help me to focus on what truly matters and to live a life that honors You.”
Over the next week, Carlos began making changes. He set boundaries for work and carved out time to reconnect with God through prayer and Scripture. He also reached out to his old church to volunteer again. When he showed up for his first youth group meeting, Carlos felt a joy he hadn’t experienced in years. The kids' laughter reminded him that life wasn’t just about work or success—it was about making the most of every moment to glorify God.
Through small yet intentional steps, Carlos found that living wisely didn’t mean doing everything but doing what truly mattered.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to live wisely, using my time in ways that honor You and bring joy to others.
Teach me to recognize opportunities to serve and love as You would. When I feel overwhelmed or distracted, remind me of what truly matters and guide my steps toward Your purpose.
Thank You for giving me the chance to live a life filled with meaning and grace.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
