Discernment is the capacity to correctly evaluate something; to understand it through careful examination and appreciable insight. The term is used throughout Scripture as the ability to distinguish 'right from wrong' and 'truth' from 'error'.
In Romans 12:9, we are commanded to ... 'Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good'. With what is deemed acceptable in today's culture, spiritual discernment is required to determine the difference.
Paul understood the importance of 'imparted' wisdom ... And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ. (Philippians 1:9-10)
A follower of Christ is gifted with a 'discernment' that goes beyond what is seen and heard by those outside the faith ... The natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:14)
Spiritual discernment not only distinguishes between right and wrong; it separates primary from secondary, essential from unnecessary, and permanent from transient. It also recognizes the difference between 'good' versus 'better' and 'better' versus 'best'.
Our Lord exercises divine discernment. Every hidden recess of your life is exposed ... For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
A sincere believer who desires to walk uprightly before the Lord knows what is needed and prays accordingly ... I am your servant; give me discernment that I may understand your statutes. (Psalm 119:125)
Spiritual discernment is the ability of a surrendered heart to see things through God's eyes. Aim for that, pilgrim ...
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