What does it mean to be "wise" according to Ephesians 5:15? Looking Closely at the Verse Ephesians 5:15: “Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise,” Paul contrasts two lifestyles—one careless and foolish, the other intentional and "wise". To “walk” is Scripture’s shorthand for daily conduct. So, being "wise" here is inseparable from the way we actually live. What the Word “Wise” Carries in Scripture • Reverence for God (Proverbs 1:7; Psalm 111:10) • Skill in godly living (James 3:13) • Practical obedience to Christ’s words (Matthew 7:24) • Spirit-given insight that shapes decisions (1 Corinthians 2:12-16) Key Marks of a Wise Walk in Ephesians 5 1. Careful Attention • The Greek idea is to look closely, like inspecting a path for hazards. • Wise believers examine motives, choices, and habits against God’s Word (Psalm 139:23-24). 2. Discernment in Evil Days (v. 16) • “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” • "Wise" people seize opportunities for good instead of letting the culture set their agenda (Colossians 4:5). 3. Understanding the Lord’s Will (v. 17) • Wisdom means aligning with what God has revealed, not guessing or following feelings. • The revealed will is Scripture; the specific will is applied by the Spirit (Psalm 119:105; Romans 12:2). 4. Spirit-Filled Living (v. 18) • Rather than being ruled by any outside influence, the "wise" yield to the Holy Spirit, whose control produces clarity and self-control (Galatians 5:16, 22-23). Practical Outworking of Wisdom • Guard your inputs ‑ What you read, watch, and contemplate shapes your walk (Philippians 4:8). • Order your time ‑ Schedule around worship, family discipleship, service, and rest so the urgent never displaces the eternal (Psalm 90:12). • Cultivate thankfulness and song (v. 19-20) ‑ A wise heart erupts in gratitude, reinforcing joy and resilience. • Submit in relationships (v. 21-33) ‑ Wisdom shows up at home and work, where humility and love replace self-assertion. Other Verses That Echo the Call • James 1:5 — wisdom is readily available by asking God. • Proverbs 3:5-6 — trust and acknowledge Him, and He will direct paths. • 1 Peter 5:8 — be alert; your adversary prowls. • 2 Timothy 3:15-17 — Scripture equips “for every good work,” the foundation of wise living. Putting It All Together Being "wise" in Ephesians 5:15 is a deliberate, Spirit-empowered lifestyle that • reveres God, • scrutinizes each step, • redeems every moment, and • conforms to the clear will of God revealed in Scripture. It is not abstract intellect but day-to-day faithfulness that shines “as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:15). |
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