Walk Wisely
Christianity is not just a way of thinking and believing; it is a way of living and doing. The Bible tells us that as God’s people we should walk wisely in the world (See Ephesians 5:15). What does it mean to walk wisely?
It means at least three things—things we can see in Ephesians 5:14-21. First, be alert to opportunities, vv. 14-16. To walk wisely means to use every opportunity that comes our way. There are opportunities to do good, opportunities to minister, opportunities to witness. The most any of us can do in life is to use or lose opportunities that come to us. The Greeks had a saying: “The gods feet are shod in wool.” That means they come very quickly and inconspicuously. Opportunities are the same way and if we aren’t alert, we will miss them. Second, be obedient to God, v. 17. The Christian’s priority is never primarily what is profitable or enjoyable, or what will lead to his own personal advancement. The Christian’s priority is the will of God. It is a part of wisdom to recognize that God knows us better than we know ourselves and that His will is the best thing that could ever happen to us. Third, be open to the Spirit, v. 18. To live wisely means to be filled with the Holy Spirit. One of the most wonderful teachings of the Bible is that the Spirit of God can indwell us and control our lives. When the Holy Spirit controls us, we are joyful, thankful, and loving. There is a strange absence of these qualities from the lives of most people. But when we are filled with God’s Spirit, they characterize us. The desperate need of our day is wise living. This is what it entails, and it is within the reach of every one of us. Walk wisely.
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.