Desception or Discernment – If you do not have one, you will have the other!
Have you ever glossed over a certain word a thousand times and then suddenly, there it is as though it were the only word on the page? This happened to me the other day when I was reading Hebrews 5. Discernment is also found in several other places such as: 1 John 4:1, Philippians 1:9-10, Romans 12:2, 1 Corinthians 2:14 and several more.
What exactly is Discernment?
Worldly interpretation: “If you can understand something that is somewhat hidden or obscure like figuring out the themes of a confusing movie, you’re using discernment.” Or “Discernment allows individuals to analyze and understand situations through logical reasoning and critical thinking, and these abilities can be honed and developed through practice.” (Self initiated)
I discovered the Biblical definition is God oriented. “Discernment is a quality of attentiveness to God that is so intimate that, over time we develop an intuitive sense of God’s heart and purpose.” Or “Discernment is the ability to judge well through the power of the Holy Spirit to determine the value and quality of a certain person or teaching.” However, I like Charles Spurgeon’s definition: “Discernment is not simply a matter of telling the difference between what is right and wrong; rather it is the difference between right and almost right.”
Why do we need Discernment?
Satan uses the subtle “almost right” tactic in thousands of churches across America! The clever words of the ‘almost right’ or the ‘near truth’ may sound good, but many are deceived by the lies that carry deadly poison to their souls. It is spiritual warfare. Why are people being deceived? Because they lack discernment. If you do not have one, you will have the other.
How do we get Discernment?
The first and foremost element is 1PRAYER. Look at Solomon as an example recorded in 1 Kings 3:9-12. Solomon prayed, “Give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil.” Solomon’s prayer pleased the Lord. God responded, “…because you have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice, behold, I have given you a wise and understanding heart.” Ask God for discernment in every situation, and He will give it. Abundantly.
2SCRIPTURE is another excellent resource when faced with making a decision and need discernment. The Bible provides direction about virtually every area of life. God speaks to us through prayer and His Word, but He also guides us through the 3COUNSEL OF WISE AND GODLY PEOPLE. (Proverbs 15:22) Watch out for WOKE churches that rewrite the standard of holiness to fit political correctness and tolerance of the culture. Find a Bible-preaching church – one that stands only on the truths of the Bible, one that discerns right from almost right, truth from near truth, and plug in to it.
Jesus has warned us that the last days will be marked by deception. Deception in the end times will be a major repeated sign of the return of Christ. (See Matthew 24 for yourself.) The world is sagging under the weight of Satan’s deception. Our only safeguard is to understand what the Bible says so that we can discern truth from deception!
What is something some people have, some people want, and all people need? Answer: Discernment.
This entire blog was because ‘Discernment’ stood out on a page in the Bible.