In Ephesians 5:15-16, the Apostle Paul wrote, “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” We are to walk as the wise, which calls for circumspection. What is that? Well, the Greek word is akrib?s and means exactly, accurately, diligently (Thayer).
The word is translated in several ways in the Greek New Testament, but always indicates a need for accuracy or perfection. So, how does this apply to our walk?
Simply, we are to walk in exactly the way God expects us to walk. Consider the words of Jesus to the Samaritan woman in John 4, “You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews” (22). The difference between the Jews at that time and the Samaritans, is the Jews knew and were following God’s will by worshipping Him where He wished to be worshiped.
In our context, Paul gave some specifics. We are not to get drunk. We are to sing songs of praise to God. We are to constantly give thanks to God for His blessings. This is to be done in the name of Jesus. We are to submit to one another as we respect God and His will for us.
These are not exhaustive, but show us we are “not to be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is” (17).
