Read Proverbs 3:21–22; Philippians 1:9–10
Discernment is essential. Undiscerning love spawns and invites more heresy than any of us are ready to believe. One of the tactics of survival when facing “the flaming arrows of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:16) is to make certain we have cinched up the belt of truth rather tightly around ourselves. And what helps us do battle with the enemy also strengthens us in relationships with friends.
A Christian without discernment is like a submarine in a harbour plowing full speed ahead without radar or periscope. Or a loaded 747 trying to land in dense fog without instruments or radio. Lots of noise, a great deal of power, good intentions, until...bam! Disaster. It happens day in, day out...with frightening regularity.
Do I hear you say you want discernment but don’t know where to go to find it?
- Go to your knees. James 1:5 promises wisdom to those who ask for it.
- Go to the Word. Psalm 119:98–100 offers insight beyond our fondest dreams.
- Go to the wise. Discernment is better caught than taught. Those who have the disease are often highly contagious.
This offer is good throughout life and comes with a satisfaction-guaranteed clause. All are welcome to apply.
Excerpted from Come Before Winter and Share My Hope, Copyright © 1985, 1994 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. Used by permission.
