What is Biblical or Spiritual Discernment?
Discernment is the ability to tell the difference between good and evil, right and wrong, the truth from a lie, the deep motives of other people, spiritual light from spiritual darkness, and the things that are good for us as opposed to the things that are an empty waste of time (Isaiah 11:2). You can see it is a brilliant combination of a variety of abilities. Discernment is related to wisdom, but wisdom is more the ability to know what to do with what we understand. (Scroll down if you are looking for the quiz!)
In the Old Testament, we have examples of remarkable individuals who had impressive spiritual discernment. For example, Solomon asked God to give him a “discerning heart” in 1 Kings 3:9 and God answered him. Throughout the book of Daniel we are told that even as a boy, Daniel had great understanding and discernment (Daniel 1:4). Daniel stood out as he lived and worked in the king’s palace in Babylon (Daniel 5:12-15, 6:3, 11:33). You might know that Babylon was the heart of occult practices, magic, and the worship of false gods (Daniel Chapter 5). However, God gave Daniel a level of wisdom and discernment to know how to navigate the difficult emotional, political, and spiritual challenges he faced in that dark culture. Maybe you can relate!
In the Old Testament, the leaders were told to teach the people how to discern these things. In fact, the book of Proverbs is filled with instruction in how to gain wisdom and discernment. However, in the New Testament, we are challenged to develop our own ability to discern (Hebrews 5:13-14, 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22).
Why Do You Need Discernment?
Perhaps you have wondered whether or not a person is telling you the truth, whether a trendy spiritual practice is “okay” with what the Bible teaches, or whether some ideas you have are from God or are just your own thoughts. All of these situations require discernment. Your discernment can be developed.
The main ways to develop discernment are: to get very familiar with the Bible, know what your personality tendencies are, know how to seek counsel when you are trying to get clarity in a matter, and know how to “test” whether or not a person or idea is from God.
Biblical Discernment: Quiz
This is a quiz I developed to help you recognize where you are strong and where you are weaker in the components of discernment. The more positive answers you have as you complete the quiz, the stronger your ability to discern truth and spiritual dynamics in your world. Remember, discernment can be developed so pay attention to what may be important to address so that you can keep growing spiritually.
Develop Your Personal Discernment
I have many resources if you want to develop your personal discernment. You can focus on getting more familiar with the Bible, developing more insight into your personality, or learning more directly about spiritual growth and the ability to discern.
