¹¹ Put on the full armor of God,^(A) so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ¹² For our struggle is not against flesh and blood,^(B) but against the rulers, against the authorities,^(C) against the powers^(D) of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.^(E)

¹⁶ “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves.^(A) Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.^(B)

¹⁹ Everyone has heard^(A) about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.^(B)

²⁰ Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children.^(A) In regard to evil be infants,^(B) but in your thinking be adults.

¹⁵ Be very careful, then, how you live^(A)—not as unwise but as wise, ¹⁶ making the most of every opportunity,^(B) because the days are evil.^{(C) 17} Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.^(D)

Two Kinds of Wisdom

¹³ Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it^(A) by their good life, by deeds^(B) done in the humility that comes from wisdom. ¹⁴ But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition^(C) in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth.^{(D) 15} Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven^(E) but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.^{(F) 16} For where you have envy and selfish ambition,^(G) there you find disorder and every evil practice.

¹⁷ But the wisdom that comes from heaven^(H) is first of all pure; then peace-loving,^(I) considerate, submissive, full of mercy^(J) and good fruit, impartial and sincere.^{(K) 18} Peacemakers^(L) who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.^(M)