Reading different Bible translations can be very helpful in understanding a passage. In this example, here are three examples comparing the NIV, NASB, and LSB's translation of Ephesians 5:15-16.

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. (Eph 5:15-16, New International Version)

So then, be careful how you walk, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. (Eph 5:15-16, New American Standard Bible)

Therefore look carefully how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (Eph 5:15-16, Legacy Standard Bible)

What is this about? Is it about a plan, a "bucket list," of all the things you would like to do before you die? What is the Legacy Standard Bible's "redeeming the time?" What is Paul talking about "because the days are evil?"

1. Ephesians 5:15-17 is part of a chiasm, which has been arranged for you to see. Share your observations of the literary patterns you see.

A. 10) as you try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord.

B. 11) Do not participate in the useless deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; 12) for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret.

C. 13) But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light.

X. 14) For this reason it says, "Awake, sleeper, And arise from the dead,

C'. And Christ will shine on you."

B'. 15) So then, be careful how you walk, not as unwise people but as wise, 16) making the most of your time, because the days are evil.

A'. 17) Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. (Eph 5:10-17, NIV)

2. A good method of studying a chiasm is to compare the first half of the chiasm with its inverted parallel. What concepts do you observe of the pairing of each part of the chiasm? What do they contrast?

3. What do you make of the inflection point, "For this reason it says, “Awake, sleeper, And arise from the dead?" Based on your observations, what is your conclusion of "making / redeeming the most of your time / opportunity?