Key #5: Practice making good judgments
When athletes want to become good at their sport, they practice, using the best techniques. And in most cases, they practice a lot! Generally speaking, the more they practice, the better they become. Perfect practice makes perfect performance. This point likewise applies if we want to develop spiritual discernment. We can’t just read about or think about discernment. We have to actually do it!
The author of the book of Hebrews illustrates this point: “But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil” (Hebrews 5:14).
Understanding head-based & heart-based decision-making styles.
Researchers have found that when making judgments, most humans have an innate preference for making either head-based or heart-based decisions. People who generally make head-based decisions are often described as logical, rational, detail-oriented and objective. People who more often make heart-based decisions are thought of as emotional, passionate, empathetic, and feeling-oriented.
Both preferences have strengths and weaknesses. Head-based decision making is often strong in terms of following rules but can unnecessarily hurt people’s feelings. Heart-based decision making generally relates well to people but can overlook important rules or principles.
The best decisions are usually made using a combination of both types of judgment. This kind of judgment respects both truth and love. We should never compromise God’s truth out of an attempt to show love to others. And we should never use truth to unnecessarily hurt others. Reflecting this point, Paul admonishes us to speak “the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15).
Next up we’ll be looking at the final two Keys, 6 & 7. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.
In His Name & for His Glory,
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
Source: https://lifehopeandtruth.com
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