WALK IN WISDOM
COLOSSIANS 4:5-6
COLOSSIANS 4:5-6 NKJ
5 Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. 6 Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.
OBSERVATION:
I never want to forget the goodness and mercy of the Lord. We started The Ark Church 26 years ago on this day, June second. The Lord has helped us and sustained us, and we are still going and still grateful.
Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside. He is talking about those who are outside of God's kingdom. These are the people who have not received the salvation offered to them in Christ.
The rest of this verse and verse six give insight as to how to walk in wisdom toward those who do not believe.
Redeeming the time. This is the second time Paul used this admonishment in his letters to the churches. He says the same thing in Ephesians 5:16. Then he reminds the Ephesians to make the most of the time because the days are evil.
It is interesting that Paul would reference redeeming or making the most of the time in regards to unbelievers. We can look at this two ways. The first is to be aware of the time because our time here on earth is limited. For those who have not received Christ, not only is their time limited, it is dangerous. Leaving this earth without knowing Christ is the very last thing we ever want to do. So be aware of the time.
And make the most of the time we have with those who are outside. Don't get too caught up with them and their pursuits. We are on a different path.
Wisdom dictates that our speech be intentional with those on the outside. Words of grace. Not words of condemnation and judgment. Also, words that have salt in them. Salt would be truth. The apostle John said grace and truth came by Jesus. (John 1:17)
As His ambassadors to those who are outside, our words are gracious, kind and contain the truth. Salt and grace are a powerful combination.
The scriptures say never ignore or condemn those away from God. They encourage us to walk in wisdom.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord, thank You for showing me how to walk in wisdom towards those outside of Your kingdom. Help me represent you well.