Discretion and Prudence are not used much today in a world where social media is prominent. Almost everything that happens in daily life is shared via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+ or the like. There was a saying many years ago, “bad news travels fast.” Well now both good and bad news travels at the speed of lightening! The down side to that is most individuals lose sight of making wise decisions on what information should be shared and what obviously shouldn’t.
“A good man deals graciously and lends; He will guide his affairs with discretion.” -Psalms 112:5 NKJV
Discretion is the quality of being discreet; To be wise or judicious in avoiding mistakes or faults; prudent; circumspect; cautious; not rash; exercising good judgment tempered with these attributes in order to arrive at a final decision or outcome.
Prudence means to be cautious; practical wisdom; good judgment; discretion; exercising caution in preparing for the future in a judicious (having, showing, or done with good judgment or sense) manner.
One main benefit of exercising discretion is preservation and deliverance!
“Discretion will preserve you; Understanding will keep you, To deliver you from the way of evil, from the man who speaks perverse things.” -Psalms 2:11-12 NKJV
You have to think of discretion as a caution sign that is used as a traffic control device. It is a warning indicator that a hazard ahead on the road may be present that may not be readily apparent to a driver. This visible sign warns the driver to slow down, take precaution, and proceed with safety. It will keep you from making bad decisions that you will regret later.
Prudence and Discretion provides the means of self-control. It will cause you to examine a situation carefully and weigh the outcome of a given situation based on how you conduct yourself. In other words, change you defense mechanism on how you would “normally” respond to a situation. Stop lashing out in anger or “ranting” especially on social media. Everything said or done by others does not necessarily deserve a response. Choose your responses wisely to your own glory (praise, honor, or distinction). Be unpredictable! It will remove any preconceived notions others may have of you.
“The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; And it is his glory to pass over a transgression.” -Proverbs 19:11 KJV
For someone to “guide his affairs with discretion” means for him to do things according to the will of God. The absence of discretion and prudence demonstrates why many have self-destructed in their course of life. They most often reject godly-advice and wisdom especially from their parents. Doing things according to God’s will takes effort on behalf of the individual and the end result is peace and blessings. Read the scripture in the upcoming text and set your heart in agreement with all the Word commands us to do to attain the attributes of discretion and prudence. Take note of the bold words- they are all action verbs; therefore something is required of you to acquire discretion and prudence.
“My son, if you receive my words, and treasure my commands within you, So that you incline you ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding; Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding. If you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; Then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.” -Psalms 2:1-5
In conclusion, the Hebrew word Mezimmah, translated in KJV as “discretion” simply means “good sense.” In other words, please be mindful to guide all of your affairs, or conduct all of your business, based on good sense. Like I tell my kids in school when they are on the verge of making bad choices…”Please don’t lose control!”
And remember…
Keep Your business- Your business!
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