Bible Verse: Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16 (ESV)
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 5:15-21; James 1:5
I read a book called The Best Question Ever by Andy Stanley many years ago, and I learned a question there that changed my life—good changes happened when I used it.
It’s a question I would ask myself mostly, but it also became a great tool in the parenting toolbox when it came to raising teenagers, and who doesn’t need help there?
The question is hidden in plain sight in our key Bible verse today, and here it is:
What’s the wise thing to do?
It seems like an obvious question, especially since the Bible talks so much about wisdom. From cover to cover, we see examples of those who exercised wisdom and those who didn’t, and we get the benefit of seeing the consequences of those life decisions, whether good or bad. Hopefully, we’re taking mental notes, because we are doomed to repeat these same mistakes if we are not careful.
What I often hear being asked is not, “What’s the wise thing to do?” but rather, “What’s the right thing to do?” You may be asking yourself what’s wrong with this question. And I agree with you; it’s a good question. But it might not be the best question. Let me give you some examples:
Is it wrong to stay up late watching Netflix? No, but is it wise?
Is it wrong to have caffeinated beverages after 6 pm? No, but is it wise?
Is it wrong to share work frustrations on Facebook? Depending on what it is, but generally, no, it’s not wrong, but is it wise?
I think you get it.
When we run decisions through a “it’s not technically wrong, so it must be right” decision-making process, we still may be making the wrong decision because we’re not exercising wisdom.
This week, we will explore how to get wisdom, develop it, make it our priority, and share it. I hope you stick around all week!
Prayer: Dear God, help me to ask the right questions when I make decisions today and through the rest of this week. Help me see the benefits of wisdom and give me a hunger for more. I thank You that You are a generous God, and those who need wisdom need only ask. Today, I ask for Your wisdom to fill my heart and mind.
Reflection: When have I made a decision that was not technically “wrong” but was also not wise? How did that work out for me? What if I were to ask this question every time I need to make a decision: What’s the wise thing to do?
Copyright © 2024 Impactus. All rights reserved.
About
