How We Walk

“No longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them … the blindness of their heart.”—Ephesians 4:17–18

The Bible says people who do not know God walk “in the futility of their mind.” They don’t realize it, but their thoughts often are futile. Their minds are filled with things that are empty and don’t edify.

They are “alienated from the life of God” and cannot have intimate fellowship with Him. They are ignorant and do not realize the impact of what they do. Since they do not know God, they are spiritually blind.

They are so insensitive that they find themselves violating God’s laws without regret. They can act without restraint, doing things without shame or regard for morality, unconcerned about eternal consequences. They can become greedy and develop impure motives.

Christians should be different. But Paul warned that if we are not careful, we can find ourselves adopting the ways of the world. Our minds can become clouded with futile thoughts, imitating the habits and patterns of people around us.

Paul taught that we need to put off the “old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts.” Rather, we are to “be renewed in the spirit of your mind” and “put on the new man,” always remembering that we find truth, not in this world but “in Jesus” (vs. 20–24).

Don’t walk in the ways of the world. Avoid the futility in which so many live. Fill your mind with God’s Word. Ask Him to renew you with His Spirit.

Reflection Question: How has your spiritual walk been lately?