1 Samuel 18:14 And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the LORD [was] with him.

Four times in this chapter, The Holy Spirit tells us that David behaved himself wisely. The man after God’s own heart was a man who behaved himself wisely. To behave wisely means to act circumspectly or prudently. David did not always behave himself wisely, did he? When he should have out at war, he stayed at home and committed adultery with Bathsheba, then had her husband Urijah murdered in an attempted coverup. To behave ourselves wisely means to do justly, and love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God.

The Psalmist declared, I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. By God’s grace, determine to behave yourself wisely today, both inside and outside of your house. When your flesh begins to cry out for satisfaction, behave yourself. When your mouth is about to say things that you know you will regret afterwards, behave yourself. When you are feeling puffed up and proud about yourself, behave yourself. Wouldn’t life be much easier if everybody behaved themselves? Wouldn’t relationships with other people in our churches be much more “enjoyable” if everybody behaved themselves? Behaving yourself is a choice. God has given to man the gift of choice. You can use it or abuse it. When we use it in a godly manner, we behave ourselves. When we misuse it, we misbehave and are down right nasty. Yuck!!!

Part of daily living necessitates making decisions. The Proverbs tell us, He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy [is] he. As your day unfolds, ask God for the ability to make wise decisions. Trusting Him with the consequences. Steer clear of self confidence, for He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered. Perhaps today you are living your life in the rear view mirror of the “good old days.” Don’t go there beloved. Say not thou, What is [the cause] that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not enquire wisely concerning this.

Precious saints, walk wisely today. Tread your ground softly and prayerfully. May the God of all grace and comfort uphold you, and strengthen you. Behave yourself for the glory of God.