“A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.”

I just read the story of three elderly brothers swindled out of their home, farm, and bank accounts by a minister and a businessman. It’s a heartbreaking reminder that people who claim to be God’s chosen leaders are not always who they say they are. At dinner yesterday, a friend asked me about a lady who is interested in a relationship with him. He is a man of great means. He told me everything about her seemed wonderful, and he was planning to move forward. But then he admitted that, even though he was really enamored by her, something was holding him back. As a follower of Christ, I reminded him that often the Holy Spirit is the source of those disquieting checks in our hearts. I admire those with the gift of discernment. Over the years, I’ve come to believe we grow in discernment as we learn to listen and respond to that still, small voice of God. For most of us, it takes practice. One of the reasons Solomon—and other biblical authors—instruct us to surround our lives with wise counselors is that not all of us are particularly discerning. I’m always struck when I see very wise and successful men or women who, outside their lane of giftedness, choose to back, support, and listen to dangerous people who misrepresent themselves as God’s leaders. It’s fascinating—and often disappointing. Today, learn to discern. #BeTheEdge

“He said to them, ‘You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God’s sight.’” Luke 16:15 NIV