Live Wisely!

From the heart of Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible Teacher & Expositor. The Bible encourages living wisely. It emphasizes understanding God’s will, making good choices, and prioritizing spiritual well-being. The Bible offers guidance on various aspects of life, including relationships, finances, and career choices. It encourages us to consider the long-term consequences of our choices and to make decisions that are in line with God’s principles and that reflect God’s character. Paul teaches, (15) “Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, (16) making the most of your time, because the days are evil. (17) So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is” (Ephesians 5:15-17). Whenever the sentence begins with “Therefore” find out what it’s there for! “Therefore” points back to the preceding context, where we’re told that as Christians, we are now children of light (Ephesians 5:8). Yet we are walking in a world that is morally and spiritually dark. We are not to cover our light and blend in with the darkness of this world. John reminds us, “We know that we are of God, and that the whole world lies in the power of darkness” (1 John 5:19). To walk wisely, you must skillfully apply God’s Word to your life. Paul says, “not as unwise men, but as wise.” Wisdom is a huge theme in the Bible, especially in the Old Testament, where Job, many of the Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes are called, “wisdom literature.” The basic meaning of the Hebrew word for “wisdom” was “skill.” The wise man had the skill to live properly. At the root of wise living is the fear of the Lord: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Prov. 9:10). Thus the wise person lives in a godly, skillful manner, thus producing a beautiful product that brings glory to God. The only way to accomplish this is to follow the divine plan, given to us in Scripture. You’ll be glad you did! Be encouraged!