Charles Ellicott Commentary Colossians 4:5

"Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time." — Colossians 4:5 (ASV)

Walk in wisdom . . . redeeming the time.—In the parallel passage (Ephesians 5:15) we have walk strictly, not as fools, but as wise, and the limitation towards them that are without is omitted, although it is added that the days are evil. The context, as will be seen by reference, is different, and the idea also somewhat different. There the “strictness” and “wisdom” are to guard against excess or recklessness within; here the “wisdom” is to watch against external dangers and make full use of external opportunities.