The Demand of Discernment

(Proverbs 10:13 KJV)  In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but a rod is for the back of him that is void of understanding.

We need more “understanding” (discerning NASB) (995) people.  This is the gift of discernment, one of the most overlooked spiritual gifts in the believing community.  We are much more into the gifts of mercy and the power gifts.  These types of gifts put us in the driver’s seat and make us respected, even envied.  Who wouldn’t rather be the one giving our largess than the one appealing for help?  And if you are able to give a mighty prophecy, who can argue with you? 

I think that is because discernment acts as a party pooper.  No one likes a party pooper.  In the story of the Kings New Clothes it took a child who was not aware of the party line to say, “Why is the king naked?”  When a panhandler hits you up for some change in the parking lot it is much easier to empty your pocket than point out that the Burger King on the corner is hiring.  When a kid in class says he can’t find the answer to a question it is much easier to point it out to him than to make him read the first line on the page. 

It also requires effort to be used and accepted.  We tend to be lazy because legalism is easier than holiness.  That is one of the reasons it is so popular.  Having a list of rules makes it easy to be holy.  They are minimum requirements.  After they are met you can get down to living.  Following the leadership of the Holy Spirit requires constant engagement and mental energy.

One big weakness of this idea is that we all tend to think we are the ones who are discerning.  Admit it, you are right most of the time.  Except when you disagree with me, of course.  Everything I wrote above is truly inspired.  How can you disagree?

So?  Disagree.  Disagree with me, but don’t disagree with the wisdom that the Holy Spirit provides.  Take everything written by mere human beings and get out your magnifying glass.  Take everything written by the Holy Spirit and start taking notes.