“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)
Last evening Bobbie and I enjoyed a wonderful revival service with the Woodland Hills Church of God of Prophecy. The spirit of God was present and seen both in power and demonstration. It was a great blessing to experience.
The evangelist, Bishop Michael Willingham, used our devotional passage as his text. I want to pass on a thought or two that he shared, as well as one or two that the sermon generated in me.
The KJV interprets this caution as “circumspectly” from the original language which means to carefully beware, give careful consideration, or use extreme caution. Bishop Willingham pointed out the bottom line when he said, “I hear the Holy Spirit whispering: ‘Be careful!'” In addition, he pointed out that many people may be “at an intersection” in their lives and need the Holy Spirit to “recalibrate them.”
In our journey of constant transformation from our present faith to the next level, we all need the Holy Spirit to adjust us or recalibrate us spiritually, mentally, emotionally, etc. It is God’s will and purpose that his disciples will be transformed or fashioned into the image of his Son (Romans 8:29). And as Bishop Willingham said, “Going to God is a sign of your faith! God has made a way for your victory . . . But you have choices to make. Be careful! Be careful!”
At the intersections of life, there are several choices that confront us. We can continue in the direction and manner we are going; We can turn left; We can turn right; or we can go back to where we were. With all the issues that face our society today, we must use extreme caution in making the choices for our lives. Our choices affect our eternity. “The Holy Spirit whispers, ‘Be careful.'”
Dear Father, thank you for your gracious warnings. Empower us to let the Holy Spirit guide us so that we are constantly recalibrated according to your will. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today as you let the Holy Spirit recalibrate your life,