Discerning Fathers

Why do fathers need to be discerning?

• We have an enemy that wants to destroy our family (1 Peter 5:8-9)
• Fathers will be held responsible for the spiritual climate that is established in our homes (Ephesians 6:4)
• There are many subtle ways that evil can influence our families that require a sharp discerning eye (1 John 4:1; 5:19-20)
• Fathers are leaders not only in the home but potentially in the local church; but, they will disqualify themselves if they lack discernment (1 Timothy 3:12; Titus 2:6)

Why do fathers need to be discerning?

• We have an enemy that wants to destroy our family (1 Peter 5:8-9)
• Fathers will be held responsible for the spiritual climate that is established in our homes (Ephesians 6:4)
• There are many subtle ways that evil can influence our families that require a sharp discerning eye (1 John 4:1; 5:19-20)
• Fathers are leaders not only in the home but potentially in the local church; but, they will disqualify themselves if they lack discernment (1 Timothy 3:12; Titus 2:6)

Principles of Discernment

1. You can't be discerning if you have not been born again (1 Corinthians 2:14).
2. Discernment is only possible if you have grown to a level of spiritual maturity (Hebrews 5:12-14).
3. Discernment is taking the knowledge of the Word of God and applying it to practical living (Philippians 1:9).
4. Discernment is the process by which we eliminate evil influences and embrace good influences (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22).

The prayer of a father that wants to be discerning (Proverbs 2:1-9)

1 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;  2 So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding;  3 Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding;  4 If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;  5 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.  6 For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.  7 He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.  8 He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints.  9Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.