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Street Smarts Or Wise Living

Wednesday July 12, 2023

In our addictive lifestyle we made poor choices and walked paths that caused harm to ourselves and to others.  We picked up a lot of “street smarts” as we tried to figure out cunning ways to deal with our circumstances. 


When we managed to lie our way out of trouble, we were considered smart. It didn’t matter that we blamed and criticized those around us if we got ourselves “off the hook..  We thought we were clever when we managed to steal from a store without getting caught or when we ripped a person off without them knowing it was us.  In the legal system we looked for loopholes to help us “beat the rap” rather than looking at truth and dealing with the consequences of our actions.  In the past we relied on our “street smarts” but they are certainly not a foundation for wholesome, healthy living in recovery.  


Wisdom will save you from evil people, from those whose words are twisted. These men turn from the right way to walk down dark paths.  They take pleasure in doing wrong, and they enjoy the twisted ways of evil. Their actions are crooked, and their ways are wrong. (Proverbs 2:12-15 NLT)

“Street smarts” took us to a dead-end on the road of life.  Applying God’s wisdom will bring us to a full and satisfying life. 

Grow a wise heart—you'll do yourself a favor; keep a clear head—you'll find a good life.  (Proverbs 19:8 MSG)

It’s time to admit to ourselves that we need God’s help to live wisely.  Our lives based on “street smarts” are unmanageable.  God wants us to be conscious of His will for us and have the power to carry it out.  We need to come to God and ask Him for forgiveness for our rebellious ways and then put our trust in Him to take us forward and meet all our needs.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, I repent of my “street smart” way of living and confess that I know very little about the way to live a good life.  Please guide me with Your counsel and support me with Your strength.  In all my ways, I commit to living my life according to Your Word.  Amen

©2023 Partners in Hope 

Audio for Street Smarts Or Wise Living

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