Fool Proof Living
September 16, 2007
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Text: Ephesians 5:15-17
Anything that causes you to be foolish at times? God calls us to live a life of wisdom - a life that can become more and more fool proof! We are called to take the path of fool proof living! Called to wise up! How?
1) Take footsteps of fear
V15 - Be careful how you live . . . accurate, precise - Like walking on a wet floor - every step you take, you use wisdom!
A) Identify the unwise way - the fool’s footsteps - Psalm 14:1 - ”The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’” A denial of God - How? Can you deny God? Me first mentality - Proverbs 12:15-16
Spontaneous and opinionated! Proverbs 10:12 - Disobedient and excuse ridden - believe your lies! Do you have faith or some faith? Can God get you through?
B) Live in fear! - Psalm 111:10 - How do you fear God? He is first! Not you, family, spouse, work - but God! First commandment! ALL to Jesus I surrender! Two paths
2) Shine in your time
V16 - make the most of your . . . every second counts! You have only so much time make it count - spend it wisely! Make it matter! Use your time to buy opportunity.
The enemy wants you idle! Days are evil . . . Your time is valuable and precious - You have a purpose.
”’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” - Jer. 29:11
A) Stay active - I’ve seen too many quitters - You control the clock! Keep fighting - you are in a battle – distractions –idols – busyness - Bus stops - Always be looking to shine in every situation! Divine appointments - Missing boat - making opportunity - to the port! To safe ground – mission
3) Come to an understanding
V17 - so don’t be foolish . . . Get a clue card
Come to an understanding - that point where you can say “I see!” I understand! I have wised up! I live to 1) Please God, 2) Be Spirit filled, 3) Be sanctified, 4) Do good, 5) Be thankful, 6) be a sacrifice - Romans 12:1-2
Foolish - Find yourself on the slippery slope of foolish living - if it sounds good, feels good, or benefits me, do it!
”Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” – Matthew 7:24
Live on the rock and come to an understanding!
Conclusion
“Once bitten twice shy”
We are called to live wised up - fool proofing our lives! A congregation of people that have come to an understanding - God’s ways! God’s will! God’s grace! Are you tired of getting bit? Fear God! Shine in your time - come to an understanding - Trust Jesus!