I am not naturally calculated when it comes to people. I tend to think the best of others, and in the past I did that even when the truth was glaring me in the face. I saw it as being understanding, nonjudgmental, and compassionate.
The problem is that many people are calculated.
TI am not naturally calculated when it comes to people. I tend to think the best of others, and in the past I did that even when the truth was glaring me in the face. I saw it as being understanding, nonjudgmental, and compassionate.
The problem is that many people are calculated.
They listen intently, not out of compassion, but for reconnaissance. They study, observe, and quietly gather what they need. Like a snake hiding, waiting for the right moment, they are not listening to understand your heart—they are listening to learn how to approach it.
And here is the uncomfortable truth: Jesus does not ignore this reality.
He addresses it directly.
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves…”
— Matthew 10:16
He doesn’t tell us to pretend everyone is safe.
He tells us to be wise.
Why Study a Snake?
For years, I read this verse without really asking what it meant to be wise as serpents. But when I finally did, something shifted.
There are people who behave like serpents—calculated, patient, and observant. And instead of pretending they don’t exist, Jesus teaches us how to live wisely among them.
Not to become like them.
But to recognize them.
Not to harm.
But to discern.
Not to manipulate.
But to not be easily manipulated.
Snakes don’t rush forward blindly. They stay still. They observe. They wait. They move with awareness.
And that’s the wisdom.
The wisdom of the serpent is not about striking—it’s about seeing clearly.
It’s about not overexposing yourself too quickly.
It’s about watching patterns, not just words.
It’s about allowing time to reveal truth.
Because just because someone is close to you does not mean they are for you. Some people don’t draw near to love you—they draw near to learn you.
And Jesus is saying: Don’t be naïve about that.
This may feel uncomfortable, even negative. But wisdom often comes through hard truths. Proverbs reminds us that the wise learn from the mistakes of others. So instead of learning everything through pain, we can learn through discernment.
When we step back and observe, it is not to make others our prey.
It is to ensure we are not walking blindly into someone else’s trap.
We are not called to have the heart of a serpent.
We are called to have the wisdom of one.
Prayer
Lord, there is so much happening in this world, and everywhere we look something is vying for our attention, not just to capture our eyes, but to influence my heart and mind. Help me to be more serpent-like in wisdom, careful to look and consider before moving. Give me Your wisdom, discernment, and strength to step back and observe before reacting. Keep my heart pure, my spirit calm, and my eyes open. In Jesus’ name, amen.
