Be Wise and Discerning

Hosea 14:9

“Who is wise? Let them realize these things. Who is discerning? Let them understand. The ways of the LORD are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them.”

Before I was saved in 2009, I would not have referred to myself as “wise” or “discerning”. I had a lot of book knowledge, and a fair amount of common sense, but I did not usually exercise wisdom or discernment. The proof was one poor decision after another resulting in a trail of destruction; and, generally, I was an easy “mark” because I was often so trusting. I was actually quite gullible, especially when it came to a sad story.

Of course, at the time I was in no way pursuing God or His ways, so I really had no idea what was right in His eyes. Occasionally, I would try to do good, or be good, but that never lasted very long because deep down I wanted to do things my way in my timing. That is the sure sign of a rebellious spirit. Consequently, it was never long before I was back to my old ways.

Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 1:30, that Jesus Christ “has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.” After I gave my life to Jesus, the Holy Spirit has been making the wisdom and righteousness of Christ increasingly more real and available to me. The Holy Spirit also brings discernment the longer one walks in Christ.

Do you stumble in His ways? Are you rebellious in any area of your life?

TODAY’S CHALLENGE:

Ask the Father to reveal any areas in your life where you are not exercising wisdom and discernment. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you choose the ways of the Lord.

Dive Deeper: Study Hosea 14; 1 Corinthians 1:30.