“See that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise.” Ephesians 5:15

What does circumspectly mean?

It means being vigilant, discreet, prudent, well considered, and considering all possible consequences and outcomes.

Wise people do not rush into anything without giving it much thought. Fools do that.

How often have people ended up in trouble after doing something that they never considered the consequences of their actions?

Too often, judging by the things people do to get in trouble. Just watch the news on TV and you will notice.

Just this week I saw on the news how some stock market investors lost money from a company whose stock price crashed. Its price went up 1000% in a short time. That would have been a red flag for seasoned stock investors, but many novice investors who held on to their stocks lost money. It is a sharp lesson.

And the lesson is: “Consider all possible factors before making a major decision. This may be a decision about whether something is an investment decision, one involving a relationship, or a decision to buy a home.”

Your lifestyle reflects your values, so when people see how you live your life, they also see what you stand for.

Therefore the question is this; “Based on how you live your life, are you a suitable role model for the younger generation?

You must not only be a walking advertisement of your faith, but also be like the wise and walk with circumspection, not like the fools.

There is a saying: “You can tell a person’s character by the company they keep, so what does the company you keep say about you?

That doesn’t mean you should avoid people. Jesus spoke to everyone, even the wicked, and no one can say that he has never made mistakes. You must walk carefully so that others can see the qualities in you that will bring others to Jesus.

A company will go to great lengths to make sure they hire the right people because they want to project the right image to their clients. Are you projecting the right image for your faith? Can those who do not believe see the difference between you and them?

If they don’t then you have a problem.

It is important to accept the wise advice and reject all the rest, but have the discernment to know the difference.