SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT

We are in a time now where we need to be more discerning than any other time in history!

Before you ask “Why?” just browse through the news headlines of different major newspapers from past 30 days. There we find all sorts of intimidating news, especially to do with the unpredictable future. All who think rationally will wonder, “How can we ever get out of this mess?” That is where discernment enters the stage!

What is discernment? The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language defines it as “the act or process of exhibiting keen insight and good judgment”. In other words, discernment has to do with the ability to see and decide.

Check out what apostle Paul prayed for the Philippians church: “And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” (Philippians 1:9-11)

The above passage shows us three things about spiritual discernment:

1. For productive results, discernment must be mixed with love and knowledge. Discernment without love is dangerous. Discernment without knowledge is folly. However when love and knowledge are mixed with discernment, we see productivity!

2. Combined with love and knowledge, discernment helps us to choose the best. Why go for mediocrity when you can see excellence! Often people end up being mediocre because they can’t differentiate between common and uncommon. Discernment brings you the solution.

3. Discernment, along with love and knowledge, leads us to stand ready for the great Day. There is no need of discernment if we plan to live life as it comes our way. However discernment is needed to live life intentionally. A day is coming when Jesus is going to snatch us out of this earth. A day is coming when we have to settle our life’s account with Him. A discerning heart knows that He is already at the door and lives ready to meet Him!