"Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time" (Colossians 4:5).
The Christian life isn't only lived in the prayer closet. It isn't a private thing ... just between you and God. There also must be a practical, lived-out Christian life - in our home, in the community, and at work. We are to walk in wisdom and with kindness among those who are without Christ, outside the faith. As we do this, we will redeem opportunities to lead them to the Lord by our walk.
The Christian walk is an evangelistic walk of life. Jesus commanded this with His parting words for the church: "Go and make disciples" (Matthew 28:19). There are no excuses for not spreading the Good News everywhere we go, whether we travel to the mission field or never leave our home town, because we have been empowered to do this by the Holy Spirit. Jesus said, "You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses" (Acts 1:8).
Looks Like ...
Billy Graham will celebrate his 98th birthday on Nov. 7, 2016. According to his staff, more than 3.2 million people have responded to the invitation at Billy Graham Crusades to "accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior.” I imagine when we get to heaven, we'll find out there were actually many more.
Billy Graham is well-known for his walk of wisdom. Through his long and extraordinary career, Graham has been overwhelmingly regarded in a positive light. He is known as the evangelist who did not rip off millions, did not visit prostitutes, and did not use the pulpit for political purposes.
Graham's wisdom has encouraged millions to seek his spiritual guidance, including Martin Luther King, Jr., Bono, Muhammad Ali and United States presidents from Eisenhower to Bush. He has been rated by the Gallop organization as "One of the Ten Most Admired Men in the World" a staggering 51 times. He is regarded by contemporaries as humorous, non-judgmental, sincere, innocent and accepting.
Ask Yourself ...
Many seek further education so they can improve themselves in the world's eyes, and increase their earning ability. But this verse emphasizes our personal growth. Do I study the Word daily, so I will increase in wisdom and be more equipped to lead others to the Lord?