What does the Bible say about discernment? This question is of great importance for believers who seek to live a life that is pleasing to God. Discernment, in biblical terms, refers to the ability to distinguish between right and wrong, good and evil, and truth from deception. It is a crucial spiritual gift that enables Christians to make wise decisions and follow God’s will in all aspects of life.
The Bible provides numerous verses that emphasize the importance of discernment. One of the most well-known passages is found in 1 Corinthians 2:14-15, where Paul writes, “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.” This verse highlights the fact that discernment is a spiritual gift that comes from God, enabling believers to understand and make sense of spiritual truths.
Another significant passage is found in Proverbs 4:20-22, which states, “My son, attend to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; keep them in your heart; for they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh.” Here, the writer encourages the reader to pay close attention to God’s Word and to meditate on it, as doing so will lead to discernment and a healthier life.
The book of James also speaks extensively about discernment. In James 1:5, it says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” This verse teaches that believers should seek wisdom and discernment from God, as He is the ultimate source of these gifts.
Furthermore, the Bible encourages believers to be discerning in their relationships and interactions with others. For instance, in 1 John 4:1, it warns, “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.” This passage emphasizes the importance of discerning between true and false teachings, especially in the context of spiritual guidance.
In addition to these verses, the Bible offers practical advice on how to develop discernment. Proverbs 16:3 states, “Commit to the Lord whatever your hand finds to do, and make your plans successful.” This verse suggests that believers should seek God’s guidance in their decision-making processes, and by doing so, they will be more likely to make wise choices.
In conclusion, the Bible speaks extensively about discernment, emphasizing its importance in the lives of believers. Through the verses mentioned above and others, we learn that discernment is a spiritual gift that comes from God, enabling us to distinguish between right and wrong, good and evil, and truth from deception. By seeking God’s wisdom, meditating on His Word, and being discerning in our relationships, we can live a life that is pleasing to Him.
