Discretion is the quality of being careful or prudent about our decisions. It comes from the Latin word discretionem, which referred to the ability to separate or make distinctions. Thus discretion is the ability to make proper judgments or decisions.

In the book of Proverbs, the word "discretion" is joined with knowledge (1:4), understanding (2:11), and wisdom (3:21).

To act with discretion is to be careful about the choices we make; to act out of knowledge, understanding, and wisdom. It does not mean to act according to how we "feel" about something, but to act according to what we "know" about something.

Acting with discretion does not come naturally to many people. This is evident by numerous observations each of us can make in our daily lives. Discretion has to be learned. Paul instructed older women to teach younger women to be discrete (Titus 2:5). Parents are to pass along wisdom and understanding to their children (Prov. 28:7).

The word "discretion" is very important to us at this time. As we are involved in the process of appointing additional elders here at Knollwood, each member needs to be exercising discretion (making careful, knowledgeable, and wise decisions). We need to be careful to set forth only those men who meet the qualifications. When the names are announced to the congregation, we again must be careful in handling any scriptural objections which may be found against these men.