The phrase “redeeming the time” really is found in the Bible.
In the New Testament, it sounds like a call to live wisely, not waste opportunities, and use every occasion for good and for faithfulness to God.
When people ask where the Bible says “redeeming the time,” they usually mean the words of the apostle Paul in the Epistle to the Ephesians and a very similar expression in the Epistle to the Colossians. In some translations, this is rendered as “redeem the time,” “make good use of the time,” or “make use of the opportunity.” The point is not that lost time can be brought back, but that the believer should treat each day responsibly, because life is short and the spiritual struggle is real.
Where exactly does it say “redeeming the time”?
The best-known place is the Epistle to the Ephesians:
“See then that you walk carefully, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Eph. 5:15–16
The second parallel passage is in the Epistle to the Colossians:
“Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, redeeming the time.” Col. 4:5
Both texts express the same idea: a Christian should not live aimlessly. Every hour, every meeting, every word can become either an opportunity for service to God or a loss of spiritual watchfulness.
What does this expression mean?
In the biblical sense, “redeem the time” does not mean literally “buying” minutes or days. It means not allowing circumstances, sin, laziness, or vanity to steal from us the opportunity to live for God’s glory. Paul contrasts wisdom and foolishness. A wise person recognizes that time is God’s gift and uses it properly.
Alongside this appeal, Paul writes:
“Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:17
So, “redeeming the time” means seeking God’s will in everyday life. This concerns family, work, words, decisions, rest, service, and personal relationship with the Lord. For Adventist understanding, this is especially important, because we believe that we are living in a solemn time of earth’s history, when character and faithfulness to God have special significance.
Why does Paul say, “the days are evil”?
The words “because the days are evil” show that the surrounding world is not neutral. It is full of temptations, haste, spiritual indifference, and moral confusion. That is why the Christian must be attentive. It is not enough simply to “go with the flow”; one must consciously choose what is good.
The Bible repeatedly reminds us of the value of time and the frailty of human life:
“So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Ps. 90:12
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Gal. 6:10
These texts help us understand the practical meaning of the expression. Time is given not only for daily cares, but also for growth in grace, service to others, and preparation for eternity.
How is this connected with Christian life today?
Modern people easily lose time in unnecessary entertainment, empty arguments, endless busyness, or spiritual indifference. Paul’s appeal is especially relevant now. To redeem the time means to put communion with God, His Word, prayer, faithful fulfillment of one’s duties, and sensitivity to the needs of others first.
The apostle also shows that wise use of time is seen in words and behavior before unbelievers:
“Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” Col. 4:6
That is, “redeeming the time” is not only personal discipline, but also a missionary way of life. Seventh-day Adventists especially emphasize that every believer is called to be a light in the world, preparing themselves and others for the Second Coming of Christ.
Ellen White repeatedly emphasized that time is one of the most precious talents entrusted by God to human beings. She wrote that every moment carries eternal weight if it is devoted to the service of Christ. Her thought agrees well with Paul’s instruction: not to spend life on secondary things when God calls us to faithfulness, dedication, and labor for the salvation of souls.
The practical meaning of the expression
In daily life, this biblical appeal can be applied very concretely. First, begin the day with prayer and Bible reading. Second, do not postpone repentance, reconciliation, or obedience to God until “later.” Third, use opportunities to do good, witness about Christ, and support those who are near you. Fourth, remember that the Sabbath also teaches a right attitude toward time: God sanctified time, and therefore the believer should honor His order of life.
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy!” Exod 20:8
This does not mean that one must live in constant fear of losing a minute. On the contrary, biblical wisdom teaches us to live purposefully, peacefully, and responsibly, knowing that our days are in God’s hands.
Conclusion.
So, the phrase “redeeming the time” is written primarily in Ephesians 5:15–16, and a similar thought is found in Colossians 4:5. Its meaning is this: do not waste your life; use every opportunity for good, spiritual growth, and service to God, because “the days are evil.” The practical application is simple: today find time for prayer, read at least one passage of Holy Scripture, do some good for someone near you, and consciously give God the best part of your day.
