May 25

So give Thy servant an understanding heart to judge Thy people to discern between    good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Thine? 1 Kings 3:9.

How often have I heard that Solomon asked the Lord for wisdom? That is what he received, along with great wealth and honor, but his basic quest was for an understanding heart. A heart of discernment is the key to following the path of the Lord in the midst of the wayward ways of man.

Discernment is a topic that some would say involves judging the motives of others. I disagree with this approach, for to discern is to use the mind of Christ to discover the intentions and diverse motives of others. The judging will be left to the Lord. But with discernment and wisdom we can decide how to speak the truth in love, so that healing in conformity to the wishes of the Lord, may be provided. Wisdom would have me first remove the ‘log’ from my own eye. I will not be discouraged by apparent failure in the communication of discernment or in someone’s refusal to accept my view.

Today, Lord Jesus, take my limited visions for life here on earth, and project into my spirit the wisdom and discernment that reflects Your nature. Your wisdom will cause me to wait on You and to not rush ahead with quick ‘solutions’ that only delay Your purposes. I will run into persons that I do not understand, but allow Your will to break through and use me with the understanding that You provide. I may appear to be at risk, but it is nothing compared to the risks and sufferings You alone have endured for our salvation. Appraise my motives, Lord, and use me for Your glory. Amen.

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