Discern the Best

It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.  God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:7-10

The church in Philippi was the first church to have been planted in Europe, on Paul’s second missionary journey. There is clear indication of Paul’s affection toward this particular church. It has the feel of mentorship relationship, almost fatherly in sentiment. Put yourself in Paul’s shoes for a moment. What words would you write to a group of people young in their faith?

One of the greatest gifts a mentor can pass on to a mentee is not a specific set of information, rather, it is how to think. Discernment is Paul’s prayer for this group that is new to the faith. Of the many things he could have prayed for, he prayed for them to be able to discern the best. Think of those in your life who look up to you. Take some time today to pray for and encourage them to discern what is best.

DO THIS TODAY: Pray for another man to be able to discern God’s best.