My child, don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace. They keep you safe on your way, and your feet will not stumble.
—Proverbs 3:21-23 NLT
Discernment in the natural world is common sense—the ability to make a good decision. From a spiritual perspective, discernment is the ability to receive God’s guidance and understanding. This Scripture gives importance to discernment and common sense. It says not to lose either one of them. They bring wealth to your life and keep you safe.
“A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences" (Proverbs 22:3, NLT). Someone who is prudent exercises common sense. As a Christian, the judgment we make about something should consider both the practical and the spiritual aspects—with the ultimate decision made through our spiritual understanding of God's direction. We often rush to judgment without God's guidance, and what appears as sensible proves to be disastrous. And we suffer the consequences.
If common sense and discernment keep us safe, then why do so many of us fall short? Because we make decisions based on our natural feelings—how we see, hear, taste, feel, and smell. We "feel" what our choice should be. Often, that decision considers not only how we "feel" but also the responses we “feel” from others. Natural perception may use common sense, but our choices can prove wrong without God's spiritual perspective. The Holy Spirit teaches and guides us into God's Truth. He speaks directly to our spirits with the best advice, but our feelings often determine our choices instead of what the Holy Spirit attempts to reveal to us.
Never rush to decide. Never make decisions based on how you feel. Seek God’s assistance. With guidance and spiritual understanding, God uses common sense He has given you to help you make the best choice. And that is wisdom.
“If you need wisdom,” James declared, “ask our generous God, and he will give it to you” (James 1:5, NLT)! God is generous—especially with wisdom. Just ask for His guidance. It is yours. And listen. It may be against what you “feel,” but His advice is always the one that speaks peace.
“Get wisdom; develop good judgment. Don’t forget my words or turn away from them” (Proverbs 4:5, NLT). “For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6, NLT). “For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy” (Proverbs 2:10, NLT)!
Do you want to make God's right decisions—to be filled with understanding, knowledge, and joy? Don’t choose anything by what you feel. Ask God, and you shall receive His best.
©2020 Lynn Lacher
www.lynnlacher.com/2020/09/god-grants-wisdom.html
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