1 Timothy 5:25

‘In the same way also there are good works which are evident, and such as are otherwise cannot be hid.’

And the same applies to a man’s ‘good works’. In some they are apparent immediately, in others they will be revealed, but only later, for in the nature of things they cannot finally not come to light. It is often the case that the person who seems (because possibly of diffidence) to have few talents, turns out to be the brightest star. Many a great speaker is also basically shy. The principle is clear, a man cannot always be judged by what he is at present. Careful discernment needs to be made, with the help of prayer, so as to detect what he might become in the future, both as regards sin and as regards quality.

Thus in the light of all this how important it is to use discerning judgment in all appointments, and especially when appointing elders. Lack of discernment could not only bring later disappointment and heartache, it could also result in hidden spiritual talents not being discerned. It is a reminder of how much prayer should go into such decisions, and how necessary it is to discern what lies underneath.