In what ways can we discern and counter "foolish" influences in our lives? Walking Wisely in an Age of Folly “Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” (Ephesians 5:15-17) Observations from the Passage • “Pay careful attention” – vigilance is commanded, not optional. • “How you walk” – everyday conduct matters. • “Redeeming the time” – foolish influences waste the hours God entrusts. • “The days are evil” – the culture around us exerts steady pressure. • “Do not be foolish” – folly is a choice we can refuse. • “Understand what the Lord’s will is” – Scripture reveals the alternative to folly. Recognizing Foolish Influences • Voices that mock or dilute biblical truth (2 Timothy 3:13-17). • Companions who normalize disobedience (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Media that celebrates impurity, greed, or violence (Psalm 101:3). • Habits that steal time from prayer, worship, and service (Proverbs 24:30-34). • Emotions that drown out godly reasoning—anger, envy, bitterness (James 3:14-16). Discernment Tools God Provides • The written Word—daily intake equips us to test every message (Acts 17:11). • The Holy Spirit—He illumines truth and alarms the conscience (John 16:13). • Wise counselors—mature believers spot deception we miss (Proverbs 15:22). • Prayerful reflection—quiet moments expose subtle compromises (Psalm 139:23-24). • Circumstantial fruit—observe long-term outcomes of any influence (Matthew 7:17-18). Strategies to Counter Foolish Influences • Guard your gateways—limit voices entering eyes, ears, and mind (Proverbs 4:23). • Replace, don’t just remove—fill the gap with Scripture, worship, wholesome friendships (Philippians 4:8-9). • Redeem time intentionally—schedule study, fellowship, rest, and service (Colossians 4:5). • Set clear boundaries—say no politely but firmly when invitations pull toward compromise (Proverbs 14:7). • Speak truth aloud—verbalize verses to counter lies on the spot (Matthew 4:4). • Seek accountability—invite a trusted believer to ask hard questions (Hebrews 10:24-25). Living It Out Today • Start each day by reading a portion of Scripture before phone or news. • Evaluate weekly activities: Which ones nourish wisdom? Which ones feed folly? • Memorize Ephesians 5:15-17; recite it when tempted to waste time. • Choose one media source to eliminate this week; replace it with a Christ-centered podcast. • Plan regular meet-ups with believers who spur you on in faith and holiness. Supporting Scriptures Proverbs 13:20; Proverbs 4:14-15; Romans 12:2; 1 Peter 1:13-16; James 1:5. Key Takeaways • Foolish influences thrive when we drift; wisdom grows when we watch our walk. • Discernment is anchored in Scripture, empowered by the Spirit, and practiced in community. • Countering folly requires both subtraction (refusing harmful voices) and addition (pursuing godly inputs). • Redeeming the time honors Christ and guards the soul in “evil days.” |
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