What practical steps can prevent us from being "a fool" with wisdom? Setting the Verse in View “Therefore be very careful how you walk, not as unwise but as wise.” (Ephesians 5:15) Why This Matters God draws a sharp line between living “as unwise” (literally “as fools”) and living “as wise.” The verse is a summons to practical, daily choices that keep us on wisdom’s path and out of folly’s ditch. Practical Steps That Crowd Out Foolishness • Redeem Every Moment • Ephesians 5:16 follows by urging, “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” • Set clear priorities at the start of each day; ask, “Does this activity advance God’s purposes?” • Limit time-stealers (scrolling, idle talk) that erode your ability to invest in kingdom work. • Anchor Each Decision in God’s Will • “Do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” (Ephesians 5:17) • Pause before commitments; pray James 1:5 for wisdom. • Measure choices against Scripture, not feelings. • Stay Spirit-Filled, Not Self-Driven • “And do not get drunk on wine...but be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18) • Foolishness is often just flesh unrestrained. Invite the Spirit’s control through daily confession (1 John 1:9) and obedience. • Fast periodically from anything that dulls spiritual alertness—media, entertainment, even certain relationships. • Guard Your Tongue • “Where words are many, sin is unavoidable.” (Proverbs 10:19) • Practice deliberate silence before speaking; filter words through Ephesians 4:29. • Replace sarcasm or rash talk with “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs” (Ephesians 5:19). • Cultivate Grateful Worship • “Always giving thanks for everything.” (Ephesians 5:20) • Start a gratitude journal; speak thankfulness aloud at meals and meetings. • Thankfulness shifts focus from self (seedbed of folly) to God (fountain of wisdom). • Choose Wise Companions • “He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” (Proverbs 13:20) • Regularly evaluate friendships, media voices, mentors. • Pursue fellowship with those whose lives showcase obedience. • Submit in Humility • “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” (Ephesians 5:21) • Invite correction; welcome accountability groups or a trusted elder. • Pride resists advice—humility receives it and grows. • Immerse Yourself in Scripture • “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you.” (Colossians 3:16) • Read systematically; memorize verses that confront personal weaknesses. • When decisions arise, ask, “What principle applies?” then act promptly. Warning Signals of Drifting Toward Folly • Time spent on trivialities steadily increases. • Prayer and Bible intake shrink or become mechanical. • Speech grows careless, critical, or coarse. • Advice from godly believers feels irritating rather than helpful. • Gratitude fades, complaining rises. Closing Challenge Walking wisely is not complicated, but it is intentional. Each step above is a deliberate act of obedience that steers the heart away from folly and toward the rich, fruitful life God intends. |
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