¹⁵ Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.^(A)

God’s Marvelous Plan for the Gentiles

3 For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner^(A) of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles—

² Surely you have heard about the administration of God’s grace that was given to me^(B) for you, ³ that is, the mystery^(C) made known to me by revelation,^(D) as I have already written briefly. ⁴ In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight^(E) into the mystery of Christ,

⁶ Let no one deceive you^(A) with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath^(B) comes on those who are disobedient.^{(C) 7} Therefore do not be partners with them.

⁸ For you were once^(D) darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light^{(E) 9} (for the fruit^(F) of the light consists in all goodness,^(G) righteousness and truth) ¹⁰ and find out what pleases the Lord.^{(H) 11} Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness,^(I) but rather expose them. ¹² It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. ¹³ But everything exposed by the light^(J) becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. ¹⁴ This is why it is said:

¹⁵ Be very careful, then, how you live^(N)—not as unwise but as wise, ¹⁶ making the most of every opportunity,^(O) because the days are evil.^{(P) 17} Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.^(Q)