“Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.”
“Walk in wisdom”
When sharing our faith, God expects us to exercise “wisdom.” How we share our faith could cause them to prejudice their ideas toward Christianity further. The witnessing style may give them an occasion to reject Christ.
The Christian has an obligation to live responsibly (“wisdom”) before non-Christians. God expects us to be sensitive to their bias. Matthew 10:16: “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” What possible hope do sheep have against wolves? “Wolves” are non-Christians here. Without wisdom, the Christian will not win them to Christ. God says He will give us the insight that we need,
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Prov. 9:10)
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5)
Principle:
God wants us to use wisdom in our dealings with those who do not know Christ.
Application:
If we desire to win people to Christ, we must approach them on their positive side. A wise walk and talk before the non-Christians will speak volumes about whether they open themselves to our testimony.
