Discernment in a Wicked World

Call To Prayer

Topic: Discernment in a Wicked World

By: Daniel Peter

Date: 29.04.2025

Even a child maketh himself known by his doings, whether his work be pure and whether it be right.

Proverbs 20:11 ASV

When sending His disciples to do the work of the ministry, Jesus Christ did not warn His disciples against the devil or his demons; rather, He told them to “beware of men” (Matthew 10:17), indicating that men pose a greater threat to them. We live in a time that is likened to the days of Noah. This is evident in the increase of wickedness among men (Genesis 6:5, 2 Timothy 3:1-5). Now, more than ever, the need for increased discernment has never been more obvious.

Though love is the foundation of the Christian faith, and God expects His children to show love to all, we see from the life of Jesus Christ that He did not entrust Himself to any man, for He knew all men (John 2:24-25). Like Him, we are to exercise discernment to know who to associate closely with and those to love from a distance. However, by what metric do we judge?

As Christians, we are not to be sentimental in our judgement. That is, we are not to judge people based on their appearance, social status, nationality, or ethnicity, but by their actions. People are known by the way they act. As innocent as children are, scripture says that their actions reveal who they are (Proverbs 20:11). This truth is affirmed by the very words of Jesus when He said, “By their fruit you will know them” (Matthew 7:16, 20).

Another tool for making judgement is the Holy Spirit. Many times, observing one’s actions may not be sufficient to judge them, as you may not have enough time to see all they do. However, the Holy Spirit knows all men and reveals the hearts of people to His children, especially those who ask. Simply praying, “Father, reveal who this person is to me,” will save you from much hurt.

As we navigate through this world in this time, let’s be circumspect, judging with the wisdom of God.

Prayer Point:

Let’s thank God for His word today. Let’s ask Him to help us discern the hearts of men.