Jesus gave this instruction to His disciples when He sent them out to minister. Matthew 10:16:
16Behold, I am sending you out like sheep in the midst of wolves; be wary and wise as serpents, and be innocent (harmless, guileless, and without falsity) as doves. AMP
One of the things that many believers have been over the years is gullible! We KNOW that the Word of God says that we are to be "ever ready to believe the best" of others. This is the BEST way to walk in the "love never fails" walk! BUT, along with love, we MUST have wisdom operating! This Scripture tells US to BE wise! Do you remember where wisdom comes from? Look at Proverbs 9:10:
10 The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning (the chief and choice part) of Wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight and understanding. AMP
Putting the One, True, Most high, Living, Almighty God of the Bible as our #1 priority in life will put us on the path of WISDOM! Then we see this in Joshua 1:8:
8 This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success. AMP
Your fellowship with the Lord and your daily meditation in His Word will give you the Wisdom you need in order to operate wisely in this life! Being "harmless as a dove" simply means to walk in love, free from judgement and filled with blessing! So what we are saying here is do NOT be ignorant of the schemes and tricks of the enemy (2 Corinthians 2:11) so that you can be easily ticked or tripped up into following his lead. Then, use the knowledge you gain to be a blessing to everyone you come in contact with, whether they choose to receive it or not! YOUR blessing and reward come from YOUR obedience, NOT from someone else's choice! Every step that you take in love is recorded in Heaven and God DOES keep track of our obedience! Amen! Here is Hillsong with "Hope Of The World"
Shalom in Him!
