CHRISTIAN WALK
“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise” Eph. 5:15
As the title suggests, we’re speaking to Christians (those who have put their trust in Jesus Christ to save their never-dying soul). So, if you have not yet put your trust in Jesus Christ, please pause and consider the great, eternal salvation that is available to you at this very moment. The transaction is simple: there is no cost and the benefits are eternal. We would that all who read this article are assured of their eternal salvation before they finish reading.
So what is meant by “Christian Walk” or more broadly “our Walk”? Simply put, it is our manner of life, how we conduct ourselves or why we do what we do. As we live our lives, we are observed by many people (family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, etc.). And it is important to remember this observation is not limited to folks on earth but extends to include Heavenly beings, even God. Our walk, though individual to each of us, is on display to many observers.
First, let’s consider our Walk as viewed by non-Christians. In I Thessalonians 4:12 we are encouraged to “walk honestly toward them that are without”. Does our manner of life demonstrate a character that would cause other to ask why we act the way we do? Do we have significant mood swings or are we overly pessimistic or optimistic? Are we honest and truthful or is there an element of deceit in our conversation? If we want to be a good testimony for our LORD, then our Walk needs to be characterized by qualities that demonstrate His merits.
Second, how is our Walk viewed by other Christians? Do we look for occasions to help others or is there an element of selfishness in our actions? We all want others to think well of us, but how we conduct ourselves cannot be based solely on how we want to be observed. If we remember who sees our actions and also knows what is in our hearts, then our Walk should be directed by what we read in Hebrews 10:24 “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.”
And finally, we need a consistent guide to help us focus on the goal before us. And how gracious of God that He gives us such a guide in the person of the Holy Spirit. The charge to each of us is highlighted in Galatians 5:16, “Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of flesh.” So as we are tempted, we need to yield to the prompting of Holy Spirit to walk wisely. And by walking in the spirit, we will fulfil the direction noted in Ephesians 5:15 “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise”.
Do I walk to satisfy myself?
What’s my motive, please?
Are my emotions kept on the shelf,
Hid so other can’t seize.
I do not dare to boast aloud,
As I daily live my life.
But my nature’s to be very proud,
And this emotion brings much strife.
How better would my outlook be,
Had I a pattern in view.
Are there steps to follow, let’s see,
I’ll give the Spirit of God his due.
I now can Walk and others aid,
Along my life-long way.
Remembering Jesus, the full price paid,
To lead me to Heavenly day.
Author: Jim Johnston