In what ways can we avoid "unwise" decisions in our spiritual journey? Staying Alert to the Call “Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise.” (Ephesians 5:15) Recognizing the Marks of Unwise Choices • Neglecting God’s Word (Psalm 119:105) • Trusting feelings over truth (Jeremiah 17:9) • Ignoring counsel (Proverbs 15:22) • Living for the moment instead of eternity (Colossians 3:2) Pursuing Wisdom Through Scripture • Daily intake of the Word guides and corrects (2 Timothy 3:16-17) • Meditating on God’s precepts shapes discernment (Psalm 1:2-3) • Comparing every opportunity with clear commands (Acts 17:11) Staying Filled with the Spirit • “Be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18) • The Spirit produces clarity, not confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33) • Pray for wisdom and receive it by faith (James 1:5-6) Walking in Community • Submit to one another in reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21) • Seek mature believers for guidance (Hebrews 13:7) • Confess and forsake sin together (James 5:16) Redeeming the Time • “Make the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:16) • Evaluate activities by eternal value (1 Corinthians 3:12-14) • Set priorities that reflect God’s kingdom first (Matthew 6:33) Practical Daily Steps 1. Begin each morning with Scripture and prayer. 2. List pending decisions; compare them with biblical principles. 3. Ask, “Will this draw me nearer to Christ or dull my devotion?” 4. Consult a trusted, godly friend before major choices. 5. Pause and wait on the Lord when unsure (Psalm 27:14). 6. Review the day each evening, confess missteps, give thanks for guidance. Living Wisely, Walking Carefully Remaining watchful, rooted in the Word, Spirit-led, and surrounded by godly counsel equips us to sidestep unwise choices and walk in the wisdom Christ freely supplies. |