Discernment – 2

(ESV) Jer 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?

One tricky part regarding discernment is that we are not always objective. Certainly this means that we may think we are very discerning, when in truth we are just so much wind blowing. Or, our discernment might be on target but applied with little love or desire for edification. Further, this verse also means that I might not be objective when I consider my own walk with the Lord or my own maturity or my ministry. One must bear the testimony of this verse before him at all times.

Humility is a good antidote to a false assessment, however, the deceitful heart is very capable of messing with this attribute as well.

The following might prove helpful in keeping a proper perspective.

Always bear in mind that one never will have perfect discernment – that deceitful heart thing, again.

Listen to the views and opinions of others, even the most 'humble' saint.

Don't be rash in imposing your own judgment.

Be filled with God's word. Let it's light illumine each issue and situation.

Listen to more than one side of an issue.

Just because one has gotten one issue correct he mustn't think he's am on a roll. (Pride and that heart issue.)

Live a life of dependence upon the Lord.

Above all, apply the truth in love.