God’s Special Opportunity: Follow God
Based on Ephesians 5:1-21
Introduction
In his heartfelt letter to the believers in Ephesus, Paul urges them to follow God as children follow their father. True children of God desire to go where God goes and to be what God is. Paul summarizes what it means to follow God: the believer’s life should reflect God’s character and motivation, manifesting love and self-denial (Ephesians 5:2). Just as Jesus Christ loved God and others, so too should the believer be motivated to do and be whatever the Father desires. Paul draws a sharp contrast between the walk of those in darkness and those who walk in the light of God’s goodness, righteousness, and truth. This distinction not only identifies those in Christ but also serves as both a reproof and a guide for those still in darkness. Like a beacon in the night, the believer who follows God becomes a revealing and saving light to sinners (Ephesians 5:3-14).
How to Follow God
Paul outlines several practical aspects of following God:
1. Walk Circumspectly
Because we are children of God and the light of the world, Paul instructs us to walk “circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise.” To walk circumspectly means to live with precision and care, guided by the instruction of our heavenly Father who knows the best way to live. This is true wisdom.
Personal Illustration: \ Many years ago, I walked through the Amazon rainforest for the first time, following a veteran missionary. He wore rubber boots and knew where to step, while I wore canvas shoes and struggled with hidden thorns. Despite my careful steps, I was unprepared and suffered painful consequences. Paul’s message is clear: watchful stepping is not enough; preparation and wisdom are essential. As followers of God, we must heed every instruction given in the Word of God through the Holy Spirit.
2. Redeem the Time
Paul urges believers to “redeem the time” in evil days. The term “redeem” means to purchase with the intent of rescuing, as seen in the Old Testament’s “kinsman redeemer.” This act places value on what might otherwise be lost. Believers are called to walk wisely, valuing time, and seizing every opportunity to act for God.
3. Understand the Will of the Lord
To walk wisely and redeem the time, we must know why and what we are following. Romans 12:1-2 teaches that knowing God’s will requires submission and separation to the Lord—a complete surrender in response to God’s mercy. Our focus must be on what belongs and is associated to God, for we become like what we value most. Fixing our eyes on the Lord transforms us into Christ’s image, enabling us to discern God’s will for our lives. This is true wisdom.
4. Be Filled with the Spirit
Paul uses the analogy of drunkenness to illustrate submission to the Holy Spirit. Just as too much wine will control a person’s actions, so too the Holy Spirit will guide and empower the believer who yields fully to Him. The more we submit, the more the Holy Spirit directs our lives.
5. Maintain a Heart of Praise
Paul encourages believers to praise God through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. All forms of praise are acceptable, but true praise is directed toward the Lord and includes continual thanksgiving for the blessings received in Christ. The follower of God is marked by a spirit of thankfulness and praise.
6. Submission to One Another
Because of our submission to God, we are called to serve others, especially fellow believers. Just as Jesus submitted to the Father’s will and served others, so too should we. The believer walking with God becomes a servant to others (Galatians 6:10).
Conclusion
Paul’s description of a follower of God is addressed to those who are already children of God. These aspects of following are not the means to become a child of God, but the evidence of being one. By obediently following God, believers demonstrate their relationship to others and have a checklist to assess their own walk with the Father.
Question:\ Are you a child of God, and are you truly following Him?