Ephesians 5:15 says, “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise.”
Walking circumspectly means being cautious, prudent, and watchful on all sides. It involves examining carefully all the circumstances that may affect our decisions and actions. In short, it means living with wisdom.
Often, a child will do foolish things. They might grab a hot stove, walk into a busy street, or go with a stranger simply because something enticing is offered.
No responsible parent would ever approve of such behavior. In fact, from the day our children are born, we constantly warn them to be careful. We teach them to look both ways before crossing the street, not to touch dangerous objects, and to be wary of strangers. This is part of raising a child to walk circumspectly—teaching them to be cautious and aware of the dangers around them.
But Paul doesn’t stop at caution. He goes further by instructing us to walk as wise and not as fools. Just as parents desire their children to grow in wisdom, God desires the same for us as His children.
So how can a child who is following their parents walk wisely? It begins with listening and obeying. A wise child listens to the warnings and instructions of their parents and follows them, trusting that their parents know what is best.
The same goes for us as Christians. We are called to follow God as dear children—wise children who listen to our Heavenly Father and obey His Word.
Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
Walking circumspectly means trusting God’s wisdom over our own and acknowledging Him in all our ways.
It’s about recognizing that God sees the whole picture, while we often only see a part. When we trust and obey Him, He directs our paths, helping us avoid the pitfalls of foolish decisions.
In this journey of following God, walking circumspectly means being aware of the dangers around us—both seen and unseen—and choosing to walk in the wisdom of God’s Word. It means making decisions that honor Him, avoiding the traps of sin, and living in a way that reflects His holiness.
As you follow God, remember that He has called you to walk wisely, not as fools. Be cautious, be watchful, and above all, be obedient to the One who knows the way.
