This word shrewd, however translated, means (in original language) to be practically wise, prudent, careful. It’s the notion of one’s inner mindset controlling behavior. Being watchful and meticulous in actions consistent with the heart. ALWAYS. No exceptions!

Life isn’t happy go lucky. We can’t just float around doing whatever we like, whenever we want, saying whatever pops into our head in the moment. No! Life is to be calculated, every moment used to the fullest, not wasted on frivolity. There are too few moments granted each of us to waste even one.

Scripture warns that we will be held accountable for EVERY idle word we speak. Every single word for our entire adult life. Every joke, every exaggeration, every act of silliness. That is a sobering thought!

Why? Because we are constantly surrounded by wolves seeking to destroy us. We must be forever vigilant and watchful. Don’t give Satan an opportunity to get a foot in the door through a careless thought, deed, or word. How many sins, how much suffering has been launched with a single idle, careless word?

The serpent is shrewd, always sneaking through the world silently, fully aware of the unsuspecting surroundings. Never letting his guard down. But he does this for personal reasons! The serpent serves himself by attacking others when possible. Exalting himself at the expense of others, feeding himself on the misfortune of others.

You see, it matters WHY we do things, that is the second half, innocent as a dove. Ever see a dove attack anyone? No! They do not feed on the suffering of others as the snake does, instead doves live off the generosity of others. They survive through the goodness of their surroundings.

Jesus is warning us to be diligent in all we do and say, but for the purpose of helping others, not serving ourselves. We are to forever be gentle, soft, loving, thoughtful, kind, service minded but in doing so be diligently wise about how that is done, where, how we express things. Should we say this or that… It matters! We can’t just blurt out our thoughts willy nilly. We must consider what is God saying, what would Jesus do.

Will you accept this challenge? For the next week, before every word spoken in every situation, pause first and ask “what would Jesus say?” or “what would Jesus do?”. Search for that answer BEFORE you speak. Do not utter a single word, not even one, not even a “hello” without first aligning that word with the Father’s thought.

Extreme? No… Jesus did just that by His own admission, and here He commands us to do the same. It only seems extreme to the extent we are currently failing to follow His example.

How do we know what the Father would say and do? Jesus knew because He spent every idle moment in prayer, spending time with His Father. You must BE with someone to know them. To know God’s heart, be with God. Not weekly, but daily! Always! Pray without ceasing. Got 5 minutes alone? How will you use them?

Wise as serpents, gentle as doves. Always.