"And so, according to the opinion both of blessed Antony and of all the others, discretion was understood as that which would lead the fearless monk on a steady ascent to God and would always preserve the aforesaid virtues undamaged; as that with which the heights of perfection could be scaled with little weariness; and as that without which many of those who labor even with a good will would be unable to arrive at the summit. Discretion is the begetter, guardian, and moderator of all virtues." - Abba Moses (The Conferences: 2.4.4)
When discretion of the heart fails, our thoughts and deeds, following an indiscreet way, fall into darkness (Mt. 6:22, 23). St. Anthony sees discretion as the light (Mt. 6:23b), the sun (Eph. 4:26), guidance (Prov. 11:14), counsel (Prov. 25:28; 31:3), the container of knowledge and understanding (Prov. 24:3-4), and even comparable to the word of God (Heb. 4:12). He lastly goes on to say, "These words clearly indicate that no virtue can either be perfectly attained or endure without the grace of discretion" (2.4.4).
Discretion is a gracious gift bestowed on the humble in Christ. Abba Moses goes on to say, "True discretion is not obtained except by true humility" (2.10.1). How do we begin to properly humble ourselves? We submit to the Church and to Holy Tradition. "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom" (James 3:13 NKJV).
As we seek discretion, let us remember our Lord's example "who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient to death, even the death of the cross" (Phil. 2:6-8 KJV).
"Humility is the only thing we need; one can still fall having virtues other than humility--but with humility one does not fall." - St. Benedict
"God descends to the humble as waters flow down from the hills into the valleys" - St. John of Kronstadt
"Wisdom leads us back to childhood. Except ye become as little children." - Blaise Pascal
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