"See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, (16) redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (17) Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. (18) And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, (19) speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, (20) giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:15-20



In this passage, it may seem like Paul is saying three things. First is a warning about the times we live in. Secondly he urges us to be wise in our ways and to not succumb to temptation such as intoxication and then he gives us instruction on how to act and be filled with the Holy Spirit, while always praising and giving thanks to GOD and Jesus Christ. 



For me, Paul is revealing to us a solid recipe for joy. Sure the times are evil and I don't think many would disagree with this statement but we have the ability to resist the evil and walk "circumspectly". When doing so, we need a clear head and through clarity, we can then begin to influence each other through psalms and hymns. Obviously Paul doesn't mean we should communicate through poems and sing to each other but we should support and encourage each other. If we do this, then we surround ourselves with the positive energy (Holy Spirit) of the LORD.



Finally when Paul tells us to give thanks always for all things, I feel he is encouraging us to be content with what we have and release ourselves from the bonds of covetousness. Through my extensive world travels, I have encountered those who have very little in regards to material wealth as well as many who have, what seems to be whatever they desire. What I've noticed is the ones that have little seem to appreciate whatever they receive while the ones with much are always fending off freeloaders and are in a constant race to gain more. Some label them as "achievers" while they call the poor, lazy. To be honest, most of the time, I see more joy in the poor than the wealthy. For me a wealthy man is one who desires less more so than the man who obtains more.



Paul tells us to resist today's evil with a clear mind, to support and encourage one another and to appreciate and be thankful for what we have and if you add these three things us, for me its a recipe that equals joy.