Be very careful, then, how you live; not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:15-17, Adapted

“Why does God lengthen our days in the land of the living? Is it that we might have time to revel in the pleasures of this vain world? Are we to be chasing such butterflies as earthly riches and honor?

“It cannot be. Wise masters do not give their servants such tasks as will not pay for the candles they burn in doing them. And truly nothing less than glorifying God and saving our souls can be worth the precious time we spend here.”

Adapted from The Christian in Complete Armour, William Gurnall (1616–1679).