Discretion     Prov. 19:11    EBC   Wednesday Night Bible Study   9/28/05

I. Definition

  A. Discretion is using wisdom to avoid damaging attitudes, words and actions and to give insightful counsel

    1. Bill Gothard – discretion is knowing how to describe unpleasant things in a pleasant way.

  B. A close synonym of discretion is prudent

    1. Characteristics of a prudent person are:

      a. Prov. 14:15 – they check out information before reacting

      b. Prov. 18:15 – they have a desire to learn

      c. Prov. 15:5 – they are open to reproof

II. Importance of Discretion

  A. Discretion is distinguishing right from wrong and choosing right

    1. Psa. 112:5-6,9 – he acts upon those truths he knows

  B. Discretion is guarding wisdom –

    1. Prov. 3:21-24 -

  C. Discretion is recognizing and responding to the motives of people

    1. Prov. 2:11,16 -

      a. Those with wicked motives should be avoided

  D. Discretion is turning knowledge into wise counsel

    1. Prov. 1:2-4 -

  E. Discretion is walking in wisdom

    1. Joseph is an outstanding model of this. He used discretion in responding to his brothers, Potiphar’s wife, Potiphar himself and in all circumstances.

      a. Gen. 41:39 -

  F. Discretion is controlling emotions

    1. Prov. 19:11 -

      a. A person can give great counsel but lack in the ability to control his own emotions

     2. Psa. 37:1,7-8 -