Discretion

Discretion

“Discretion will guard you, Understanding will watch over you, to deliver you from the way of evil (Proverbs 2:11-12a NASB),..”

Definition: Discreet: Judicious in one's conduct or speech, especially with regard to respecting privacy or maintaining silence about something of a delicate nature (Dictionary.com).

Discretion is played out visibly when someone knows the best time to say or do something, but more importantly is how discretion plays itself out invisibly in the mind - which is ultimately where all of our actions stem from. If we are committed to considering others higher than ourselves we will not be able to do certain indiscreet things without feeling it in our conscience. In regard to discretion considering others higher means being more aware of what we do and say and how it may affect others instead of only being aware of how our behavior and speech affects us or how it individually makes us feel. Closing a door without noticing someone coming in behind, walking in the middle of people taking pictures, or inversely, taking pictures in a crowded area that blocks a walk way where people have to stop and wait, talking loud on a cell phone in a public place, sharing second hand information or something private about people that will do nothing but make fun or make a negative impression of them, or saying profane or off colored things, especially around women and children. Being unaware is probably the most common reason people are indiscreet, but some do it to vent anger or pride, some do it out of habit from lack of discipline, some do it for hateful or prejudiced reasons and others have become so selfish and numb to the feelings and affects of others that they don't care and do whatever they feel like usually touting some justifying statement like "It's a free country", "What's the big deal anyway" or "Why should I have to stop". God desires us to be at peace with others and at peace with Him through Jesus - that is why it should stop, why it is a big deal and why many things are permissible, but not all things are beneficial. His peace allows us to rest in Him and to find rest in ourselves. Being in God’s rest helps us slow down and let go: to slow down when we are in a hurry to do and share, which puts us at risk of being unaware, and to let go of every selfish, unneeded, unnecessary or ill-timed activity.

Prayers: We pray our child will learn to be discreet first in the mind through diligent and consistent awareness and second through respectful behavior. Please help our child enter Your rest and peace by reconciliation through Jesus, then through inheritance as a co-heir with Christ and have understanding.

Please help us direct our child toward proper activities and keep anything improper from becoming activated or from being made into a habit.
Thank You for Your help and blessings.