Full Peripheral Vision

(Eph. 5:15)

Warren E. Berkley

“See that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise,” Eph. 5:15.

Paul gives instruction for our good in this verse. And this is about the sound combination of mobility (walk) and full peripheral vision (circumspectly). God’s people are to be mobile and that mobility must be accompanied by circumspection, which simply means looking all around; full peripheral vision! Webster says of “circumspect” – Attentive to all the circumstances of a case or the probable consequences of an action; cautious; prudent; wary. The Greek word centers on diligence; taking care to guard against temptations and to live as one should through them.

When Jesus made His “Triumphal Entry” into Jerusalem, and in Mark’s report of this arrival, it is said of Jesus, He looked around at all things (Mark 11:11). We do not believe this was the casual observation of a tourist, nor any limited focus. This was the serious perspective of One who was attentive to all circumstances. He had full peripheral vision of all that was happening in the behavior of Jerusalem’s people.

Like Jesus, we must look around at all things, being watchful with prayer; alert to the varied and subtle approaches of the enemy, and ready to abide in the Word of God through whatever temptations or trails may come. Let us not wander through life as fools, but “as wise.” To this I should add, be watchful of opportunities to serve others, reach out to them, listen to them and be equipped to help in the best way possible.