DISCERNMENT!

While some people have an exceptional and fine-tuned gift of discernment, each of us possess to one degree or another the ability to discern. In fact the scripture says that our discernment is increased if we use it:

But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. Hebrews 5:14 (KJV)

It is essential that we take our ability to discern seriously. It can keep us from everything like a bad business deal to a life and death situation. The most important thing that we can never forget is that God is FOR us, and because He is God and knows the end from the beginning, He knows both the tricks of the enemy and the frailities of man. He wants us to be "prosperous and have good success" in all that we do.

When King David went the way of all men, and his son Solomon assumed the throne, he was yet a very young man.  He was somewhat unsure of his ability to lead God’s people as his father had. Solomon had been taught however to seek the Lord and this was part of his prayer:

"Here’s what I want: Give me a God-listening heart so I can lead your people well, discerning the difference between good and evil. For who on their own is capable of leading your glorious people? 1 Kings 3:9 IMSG)

Solomon knew that he was surrounded by treacherous people, and turbulent times. He knew that it would be impossible for him to navigate his leadership successfully without the help of God. Solomon is not the only man who needed this kind of wisdom, we all do. Whether we are a mid-level manager of a large corporation or a stay-at-home Mom caring for her children, we all need "a God-listening heart", so we can "discern the difference between good and evil". 
Maria