How to Obtain Spiritual Discernment According to the Bible
Spiritual discernment is the ability to distinguish between truth and error, right and wrong, good and evil, and God’s will from our own desires, enabling us to navigate life with wisdom and clarity.
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o attain spiritual discernment according to the Bible, one must engage with several critical aspects and scriptural insights:
o attain spiritual discernment according to the Bible, one must engage with several critical aspects and scriptural insights:1. Understanding the Need for Discernment Spiritual discernment is essential for distinguishing good from evil, recognizing truth from falsehood, and understanding God’s will in various situations. As highlighted in Hebrews 5:14, it states that those who are mature in Christ can discern both good and evil: “But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”
2. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a pivotal role in bestowing spiritual discernment. Through Him, believers can receive wisdom and understanding that surpass human knowledge. I Corinthians 2:12 states, “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.” It’s crucial for believers to seek the Holy Spirit actively, asking for His guidance and help in making decisions.
3. Prayer and Seeking God’s Guidance Prayer is fundamental in seeking discernment. As shown in James 1:5, any believer who lacks wisdom should ask of God, who gives to all men liberally and does not reproach them. This emphasizes the importance of approaching the throne of grace in prayer for understanding and wisdom.
4. Studying the Scriptures Engaging deeply with the Bible is crucial for cultivating discernment. The Word of God is described as a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). Regular reading and meditation on the Scriptures equip believers to make wise decisions and grow in godly understanding.
5. Spiritual Gifts of Discernment The Bible mentions specific gifts attributed to the Holy Spirit, including the gift of discernment. I Corinthians 12:10 lists it as one of the spiritual gifts: “To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues.” This indicates that discernment is not only a developed trait but also a spiritual gift.
6. Living a Life of Holiness A life committed to holiness and righteousness is essential for discerning spiritual matters. The principle of holy living is captured in 1 John 1:7, which states, “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” When a believer’s life reflects Christ’s character, they increase their ability to discern God’s will and the spirits at work in the world.
7. Seeking Counsel from Mature Believers Engaging with spiritually mature individuals can also aid in enhancing one’s discernment. Proverbs 15:22 says, “Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.” Seeking and heeding advice from trusted mentors and leaders within the faith community is vital.
8. Testing the Spirits Believers are called to test the spirits to see whether they are of God. 1 John 4:1 instructs us: “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” This call to discernment emphasizes the need to be vigilant and to evaluate teachings and beliefs against Scripture.
9. Engaging with Community Worship Regular participation in communal worship and fellowship can enhance spiritual discernment. In Acts 2:42, we see that the early believers continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers. This practice nourishes growth in discernment as the community seeks God together.
In conclusion, spiritual discernment is a combination of several factors: reliance on the Holy Spirit, a commitment to prayer, diligent study of the Scriptures, social engagement with Christian fellowship, and a lifestyle reflective of God’s holiness. When these elements come together, believers can navigate the complexities of life with wisdom that aligns with God’s will.
For further teachings on discernment and spiritual growth, please refer to the full text offered in Pastor W.F. Kumuyi’s documents, such as spiritual gifts and the importance of holy living in enabling discernment through God.
