Before the Thanksgiving break, we spent the week thinking about my friend Ray Bandi’s observations on how believers should behave in the world:

• We have a different ruler
• We have a different Spirit
• We have a different source of wisdom
• We fight with different weapons.

Ray’s conclusion was simple:

The world is a dangerous place.  Therefore, we must be careful and discerning. 

Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. (Ephesians 5.15 – 17, NASB, emphases Ray’s)

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12.2, NRSV, emphasis mine)

And, of course, how do we understand God’s will, renew our minds, and discern what is good, acceptable, and perfect? Daily time with God!

Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD. (Proverbs 8.34, 35, ESV)

My voice You shall hear in the morning, O LORD; In the morning I will direct it to You, And I will look up. (Psalm 5.3, NKJV)