In life it is very important to be discerning, being wise so as to have a right understanding of people and situations. The Lord and the light of His Word ultimately reveals what people are like (v27).

In our deals with others as we observe their actions (v11) and listen to their words (v19), we get a measure of where people are at and who to avoid. We need to be careful not to be too quick to say that someone or something is good or holy (v25). We live in a world of much evil and should not be gullible.

What truly is in someone’s heart can be hidden and it takes great wisdom sometimes to draw the truth out (v5). Some people say things they don’t mean in order to manipulate situations for their own gain like someone bartering for a good deal (v14).

Discernment is particularly important for those who rule as they have to seek to discern and drive out what is evil (v8, 26). To winnow means to rightly divide and cast away what is evil. All have the responsibility to be wise and discern what is good and what is evil, but particularly those who lead.