Developing Discernment by Lee Stephenson

When I think about discernment, I think of maturity. If discernment is part of maturing then it isn’t something that comes natural. Because humanity is naturally rebellious we can say that humanity has a bias towards sin. In other words, we are drawn to sin. A person that wants to grow in the art of discernment must also be a a person of courageous humility. The reason being it is hard to discern the workings of God when you have an arrogant attitude or personal bent.

Here are two specific areas where humility is necessary:

1. Humility before God:

To humble ourselves at the foot of the cross and admit that we are indeed sinful and in need of grace, is to also acknowledge our own lack of discernment.  The very concept of needing a savior is to also realize that our own wisdom is incomplete and totally insufficient.  Furthermore, our wisdom is not only insufficient but we are ignorant in the application of it.  The ability to naturally discern what is pleasing to God was lost in the garden of Eden.  However, it is through the reconciliation found in Jesus and the special revelation of God’s Word that discernment can once again mature.  As a result, we must hunger and cry out to the Creator for wisdom. Secondly, we must humble ourselves to the study and application of God’s Word, knowing that it will teach us all that needs to be known.

2. Humility before Others:

Even though humility before God is absolutely critical, there is another area in which we must practice humility and that is before other believers.  A person who desires to grow in discernment must also acknowledge that God often times uses others to help one grow in wisdom, knowledge, and discernment.  The Christian life was never meant to be lived out as individuals in isolation.  It is to be lived out in community where there is diversity of personalities and gifting.  Living life in community helps us harness and mature in the skill of discernment.  For instance…A person desiring to be discerning must always take into account their own motives.  They must be motivated to protect, teach, and to encourage their fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.  To do this well is to be a person of discernment.  However, to do this well is to also place yourself under the same rule.  For you cannot teach, protect, and encourage unless you open yourself up to others in the same way.  There has to be a willingness to hear reproof and to be challenged by others.  And there is no doubt that this is a test of humility.  And yet, it is imperative to maturing in discernment.  (HT)

Lee Stephenson is the Lead Pastor of Harvest Community Church in Mesa, Az a new church with Converge Southeast and Vision Arizona