Discernment requires that we observe and understand a situation. It not only helps us distinguish right from wrong, but also choose between good, better, and best. We’re able to make a judgment about what will work and what won’t. In essence, to discern we make an assessment of the situation that should ultimately lead to making wise choices.
As humans, in and of ourselves, we tend to make poor, and even destructive, choices, so how do we become more discerning?
There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death. (Prov. 14:12)
What We Need to Do to Be More Discerning So We Make Wise Choices
Discernment takes more than following a few steps. It’s something developed within us as we use the right means to get there. Click on the links below to learn more about each of these means to becoming more discerning.
He provides the standard against which we discern what’s right and wrong.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom … (Ps. 111:10)
If we don’t change on the inside first, our attempts to be more discerning will be short-lived.
… 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. (Rom. 12:2)
This is what God uses to teach us about Himself so we know the right and best way to go.
… by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. (Heb. 5:14)
Since loving God and others are the greatest commandments, we need to filter what we do through this lens.
… 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 … (Phil. 1:9-11)