Matthew 10:16

Matthew 10:16 (ESV): “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.”

Knowing the room is important in every aspect of life. Every Christian needs to operate with divine wisdom and discernment—to know when to speak and when to remain silent—lest we bring unnecessary trouble upon ourselves.

Jesus sent His disciples out with clear instructions: to take nothing with them, and when they were welcomed into a place, to let their peace rest upon it—but when they were not received, to shake the dust off their feet. He told them they would be like sheep among wolves, so they needed to be strategic and wise about when and where to speak. He wasn’t telling them to avoid confrontation at all costs, but rather not to create unnecessary conflict through a lack of wisdom. They were to be wise as serpents and gentle as doves.

Do you know the room, Christian? When people don’t want to hear about Jesus, do you provoke them to anger unnecessarily? Trouble will naturally find those who are truly living for Christ. There is no need to manufacture it through pride or poor discernment. Walk in humility. Speak when the Lord directs you—but be willing to step back when your delivery—not the message—is doing more harm than good. Wise as serpents, gentle as doves. Amen?

Father, we thank You for sending us out as Your witnesses. Empower and embolden us to stand firm when necessary, but also to walk away from battles You have not called us to fight. Direct our steps, we pray, in Jesus’ name, amen.