Proverbs 3:21-23 – My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let them out of your sight; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. (NIV)

At the jail where I guard, there is a row of lockers to store our clients' personal belongings while they are in a holding cell. The lockers preserve their valuables and clothing from being lost or stolen until they are returned to them when they are released. Sometimes, they are released fairly quickly, and other times, their stay is lengthier, depending upon the seriousness of their offense. Whichever the case, the clients are there due to the fact that they have not displayed sound judgment or discernment regarding their behaviour.

In many ways, God provides a locker for all of us, if we choose to use it, in regards to the safekeeping of our personal behaviour and thoughts. Just as a metal locker surrounds and keeps safe a person's private and valuable belongings, when we cultivate sound judgment and discernment, these qualities surround and protect both our minds and our actions, preserving us from foolish and often unsafe habits and behaviours. But, we might ask, how does one cultivate and gain sound judgment and discernment?

Proverbs 3:1-2,5-6 – My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (NIV)

These verses give us the answer. For when we know and remember the teachings of God and trust in Him entirely, sound judgment and discernment will become a part of who we are. They will surround our very being, they will be as an ornament to grace our neck that we may go on our way safely, and our feet will not stumble as we traverse the way of life.

Prayer: Father God, grant us eager and faithful hearts that yearn for the wisdom of Your Word. Bless us with faithful, trusting spirits, that we might humbly acknowledge You in all our ways and thus preserve sound judgment and discernment within our lives. In Christ's name, we ask. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author:

Lynne Phipps <lynnephippsatlin@gmail.com>
Tawatinaw, Alberta, Canada
Send your feedback to the author