Bible Reading: Psalm 116-118; 1 Corinthians 2.
Memory Verse: “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14 (KJV)
The word discernment simply means ability to judge people and things well. Spiritual discernment then means the process by which God helps the individual to reach the best decision on any issue. Spiritual discernment is something that we should all desire as it is necessary to help us grow in our faith. Hebrews 5:14 (KJV) says, “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.”
No wonder, Solomon asked for spiritual discernment when God asked him to request for anything he needed. In 1 Kings 3:9 (KJV), he said “Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?” And God was pleased with his request that he did not only give him a discerning heart, but also riches and honour!
We can learn from Solomon how he got the spirit of discernment. First, he honoured God by not only giving God a generous offering but what nobody had ever given before. So, you should honour God in everything that you do by putting God first. (Matthew 6:33). Secondly, he asked for what will help him fulfill the responsibility bestowed on him but not selfish material gain. (when you have spiritual discernment, it is important that you use it for the expansion of the kingdom of God and generally for the benefit of mankind). Thirdly, he walked in the statutes of David his father. So you need to study the word of God to know Him more and ensure obedience to the word.
In addition to the above, there is need to fellowship with God regularly so that you can communicate with Him and get to know Him better. This should also provide you with the avenue of asking God for the gift.
Besides the fact that discernment will help you have deeper understanding of the word of God, it will also help you live a victorious Christian life. In addition, it also makes you live above fear and worry as you can always discern the way forward in every situation you find yourself. Thus, the Bible says in 1 Corinthians 2:14 (KJV) “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”
Prayer point: Almighty God, please give me the spirit of discernment that I may understand your words better and live a life pleasing to You in Jesus name.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero