shut up and pray!

And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment

(Phillippians 1:9)

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you, and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith.
(2 Thessalonians 3:1-2)

Some good points from John Bevere,

• Discernment is not SUSPICION. (Suspicion being fear motivated, and fear isn't of God).
• Discernment is CONCERN for others and their welfare. (it won't carry hidden agendas or critical spirits).
• Love is crucially important when discerning. Love cast's out all fear and gives an atmosphere where discernment (not suspician) can flow.
• Jesus confronted, but also loved. He confronted IN love.
• If you are discerning - pray rather than gossip! (And know the true difference between gossip and concern!)
• Check your motives (are you being ultra spiritual, or genuinely concerned?)

This was sure a wake up call for me. Really tested and challenged me! I have been guilty of trying to be ultra spiritual and suspicious on many occasions. I've been moved to use my discernment as a real thing to pray about (as it always should have been). ie, when an issue comes, just shutup (ie stop gossiping) and pray!

And yes, despite the man himself being in Melbourne, I didn't go to see him. This is merely adapted from his book, Victory in the Wilderness. (Pages 79-80)