What is discernment according to the Bible?

Discernment, as understood within the biblical context, is a profound and multifaceted concept that plays a crucial role in the life of a believer. It is the ability to perceive, understand, and judge matters with spiritual insight and wisdom, distinguishing between truth and falsehood, right and wrong, and God's will versus human inclination. The Bible provides rich guidance on this topic, emphasizing that discernment is both a gift from God and a skill to be cultivated through spiritual maturity and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

The foundation of discernment is rooted in the nature of God Himself, who is the ultimate source of all wisdom and understanding. Proverbs 2:6 states, "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." This verse highlights that true discernment originates from God and is bestowed upon those who earnestly seek it. It is more than mere intellectual acuity; it is a spiritual sensitivity that enables believers to navigate the complexities of life in alignment with God's purposes.

In the New Testament, discernment is explicitly mentioned as a spiritual gift. In 1 Corinthians 12:10, Paul lists the "distinguishing between spirits" as one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. This gift enables believers to recognize the presence and activity of the Holy Spirit as opposed to other spirits, which could be deceptive or malevolent. This form of discernment is particularly vital in matters of faith and doctrine, ensuring that the teachings and practices within the Christian community remain true to the gospel.

The Apostle Paul also emphasizes the importance of discernment in the broader sense of moral and ethical decision-making. In Philippians 1:9-10, he writes, "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ." Here, Paul links discernment with love, knowledge, and insight, suggesting that a discerning heart is cultivated through a deepening relationship with God and an increasing understanding of His will.

Discernment is not only a gift but also a responsibility. Hebrews 5:14 underscores the necessity of maturity in developing discernment: "But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil." This passage indicates that discernment is honed through experience and practice, much like a skill that improves with consistent use. It requires a commitment to spiritual growth, regular engagement with Scripture, and a willingness to apply biblical principles to everyday situations.

The process of discernment involves several key elements:

1. Prayer and Dependence on the Holy Spirit: Discernment begins with a posture of humility and reliance on God. James 1:5 encourages believers to seek wisdom from God: "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." Through prayer, believers invite the Holy Spirit to guide their thoughts and decisions, trusting in His divine wisdom.

2. Engagement with Scripture: The Bible is the primary source of truth and a critical tool for discernment. Psalm 119:105 declares, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." Regular study and meditation on Scripture equip believers with the knowledge and principles necessary to discern God's will. The Word of God provides clarity and direction, helping to illuminate the right path amidst the myriad choices and challenges of life.

3. Community and Counsel: Discernment is often enhanced through the input and wisdom of the Christian community. Proverbs 15:22 states, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." Seeking advice from trusted, spiritually mature individuals can provide valuable perspectives and help to confirm or challenge one's understanding. The collective wisdom of the body of Christ serves as a safeguard against individual biases and errors.

4. Observation and Reflection: Discernment involves careful observation and thoughtful reflection on circumstances, motives, and outcomes. Jesus advises in Matthew 7:16, "By their fruit you will recognize them." Evaluating the fruits of actions, teachings, and influences helps to distinguish what aligns with God's character and purposes. This reflective process requires patience and attentiveness to the ways in which God is at work in the world and in one's life.

5. Obedience and Faithfulness: Ultimately, discernment is about aligning one's life with God's will and being faithful to His calling. Romans 12:2 exhorts believers, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." A discerning heart is one that is continually being transformed by the renewing of the mind, shaped by God's truth, and committed to living out His will in practical ways.

Discernment, therefore, is an ongoing journey of spiritual growth and maturity. It is not a static state but a dynamic process that evolves as believers deepen their relationship with God and gain greater insight into His ways. It requires a balance of humility and confidence, recognizing one's dependence on God while also trusting in the discernment He provides.

Christian literature also offers valuable insights into the nature of discernment. For instance, Ignatius of Loyola, in his "Spiritual Exercises," provides practical guidance on discerning God's will through prayerful reflection and examination of one's inner movements and desires. His approach emphasizes the importance of seeking God's greater glory and aligning one's choices with His divine purposes.

In contemporary Christian thought, Henri Nouwen's writings on spiritual discernment highlight the significance of attentive listening to God's voice in the midst of life's noise and distractions. Nouwen encourages believers to cultivate a contemplative posture, being attentive to the subtle promptings of the Holy Spirit and discerning God's presence in the ordinary moments of life.

In summary, discernment according to the Bible is a vital aspect of spiritual wellbeing, enabling believers to navigate the complexities of life with wisdom and insight. It is a gift from God, cultivated through prayer, engagement with Scripture, community counsel, observation, and obedience. Discernment involves a deepening relationship with God, a commitment to spiritual growth, and a willingness to align one's life with His will. As believers seek to develop discernment, they are empowered to make choices that reflect God's truth and bring glory to His name.