Introductory Thoughts
Imagine the vulnerabilities of a watchman who refuses to keep his eyes open to every possible angle from which danger could arise. No doubt the enemy would scout the land observing the bad habits of the watchman. If the watchman fails to examine each point of entry, the enemy will attack from the unprotected angle. In like manner, believers are to walk circumspectly. The word circumspect means to look all around. Believers are to be sober and vigilant knowing that their enemy, the Devil, “walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). God’s enemies always search for the weak spot where the hedge has been cut down or ignored. This is why there is no angle in the believer’s life that can be safely ignored.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Satan hates God and His creation and does not want us to obey God. God wants us to know His word and be circumspect, considering both what He says to do and the consequences if we choose to disobey (Exodus 23:13a). If we despise what God says, the Bible says that we are fools (Proverbs 1:7b).
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(For everyone): What are some areas in your life that the Devil could attempt to attack you? What dangers could exist if you fail to walk circumspectly? In what areas of your life are you currently weak spiritually?
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Failing to walk circumspectly is foolish (Ephesians 5:15). Why is this foolish rather than ignorant? What is the difference between foolishness and ignorance?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to give you wisdom to walk circumspectly.
- Thank God for the light He has given you concerning evil.
Song
Who Is on the Lord’s Side?
