Savvy Sophistication

Honestly, what is discernment? Merriam-Webster dictionary describes this as “the quality of being able to grasp and comprehend what is obscure skill in discerning”. Well what does that even mean? It means to make well rounded decisions, and using that to make sense of something that is unclear. 

So now that we know what discernment is how does that fit in with being a Christian? I believe that God gives spiritual gifts or equips individuals with a clear vision to achieve Gods will, spread his message, and glorify him. There are many spiritual gifts spoken of in the Bible. Those include teaching or being a disciple, leadership or shepherding, wisdom, prophecy, evangelism, serving, giving, and discernment. I personally believe in seeking out your spiritual gifts and nurturing them. God has given you these spiritual gifts to use them, and deepen your faith. 

In my own words I believe spiritual discernment is to look at all situations with spiritual eyes, and recognize the truth in a situation. To be able to distinguish what is of God, and what is not. We must discern what is the will of God. Being wise to our own eyes of what is before us.

How do we sharpen our gifts? Through prayer, and reading scripture. Making a daily appointment with him and just simply being in his presence everyday. Discerning is knowing who to spend time with, the information you receive, and when to know how to react to schemes that are ungodly. Being self aware of our time, energy, attention, and friendships. Making sure they meet the correct balance in our walk with faith. Being mindful of your inner voice and making your decisions that are based on what’s right according to his word. Taking a moment to pause, and reflect before making decisions. 

It means to not live in fear and walk boldly knowing that you are a child of God. He is your armor, he is where your next meal comes from, he gives all of the blessings, he gives you gifts, and he can take them all away. To be obedient to him, and let go of control, because he is all knowing. Every situation is already being worked in your favor. No weapon formed against you will prosper no matter how hard the battle may seem from the outside looking in. Do not be afraid to turn away from worldly attractions and have a clear sight into a situation that will not serve you in the spirit. Let the heaviness be lifted off of your shoulders. Let him deal with the plans that were set out to destroy you. Be the fire that you needed to continue his will. God will protect you, and he will see you through difficult decisions that require you to use your gifts. 

Keep discerning in your life, and don’t be discouraged. Be prepared to be looked at like you’re a crazy fool for loving God so much that his presence means more to you than anything else. Whether that’s money, position, status, relationships, values that don’t align with his word, thinking like a non-believer, material wealth, pride, witchcraft, false idols, etc. Give it to God, recognize the subtle warfare around you, and ask him to show you the way. Be in his presence and let God be at the front of your mind, and Jesus in your heart. The list of tricks of the fallen angel is long, but our time with God is infinite, eternal, and never ending. Don’t forget that he placed you here for a reason, he placed spiritual gifts on your life, and you’re here to be a light in the world. Even when others seek to dull that light.

Let us pray; “God we praise you, we rebuke the intentions of the enemy, and we sharpen our spiritual gifts through your guidance. God we thank you for your many blessings. Amen.”