Live carefully

Seeing God as some distant rule maker and the Bible as a weighty list of restrictions are common Christian beliefs. But, God is not about rules and regulations; he seeks relationship.

And, if we are in that relationship with God, we'll want to know how to live in a way that pleases him. And if we trust his judgement, his warning that the ways of this world can often be dangerous or wrong is one we'll want to hear: 'Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil' (Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV).

God is keen on us living a certain way. God doesn't need a relationship with us, he wants it, out of love, so it makes sense that he has our best interests at heart. Add to that that he knows absolutely everything that can be known, and his opinions become very trustworthy.

When God says things like, 'live wisely', 'do not gossip', 'get filled with my Spirit, rather than getting drunk' (Ephesians 5:15-18), it's because he wants us to avoid hurting ourselves and others. So, let's not 'conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of [our] mind' (Romans 12:2 NIV).



So what now? Be deliberate about doing things wisely for God. Challenge yourself to make a positive change in one area of your life, whether in attitude, habit or behaviour. God loves you and wants to help you live carefully.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Be careful how you live... like those who are wise.' Ephesians 5:15 NLT
— SOULFOOD —

S of Sol 5-8, Matt 26:1-16, Ps 39 , Pro 21:9-13