Today’s world is full of deception and lies. 1 John 4:1 confirms that falsehood is everywhere, and we must beware of being deceived by those who disguise themselves as angels of light, whereas they are of darkness. That is why we must adopt the gift of discernment to perceive existing differences.
The reason for this is that many have been misled, accused and killed because they lack how to discern and follow the path of truth.
As Christians, we need not be victims but people who will stand up to fight against falsehood in this generation. Remember that the weapons of our warfare are not carnal. 2 Corinthians 10:4
In this post, we shall examine how to differentiate the spirit of God from the false spirit, discern the spirit of truth from that of error, and deal with falsehood.
Why Discernment Matters?
Discernment is the ability to see and distinguish by noting differences. It could also mean to detect with the senses, such as the eyes or the mind, and to perceive right and wrong.
It helps us judge well and separate the truth from deception and falsehood. Likewise, it helps us make decisions that align with God’s will.
In our daily activities, we encounter things we need to decide on. And as believers without a sharp sense of discernment, it’s easy to desert the will of God for our lives and trek the path of sins.
“The person without the spirit does not accept the things that come from the spirit of God but considers them foolishness and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the spirit.” 1 Corinthians 2:14
The Following are the Reasons Discernment Matters
- It is proof that God abides in us:
We need the Holy Spirit of God to lead us in all our ways to fulfil God’s will. The knowledge that abides in us comes from the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:1 - To Test Prove Falsehood:
Deception is widespread today, and we must be cautious not to fall for the lies. Many people are now pretending to be what they are not. The Bible records instances where people hid their true identities but God’s spirit ultimately revealed the truth. In the Old Testament, the wife of Jeroboam 1 Kings 14:1-8, while in the New Testament, the slave girl in Acts 16:16-19 - To Avoid Falling into Error:
Our Lord Jesus Christ warns us that falsehood will increase, which has been with the help of false prophets who rise to deceive many. He proceeds that falsehood proliferation will be so much that they would deceive even the elect, if possible thus; The gift of a discerning spirit is needed to distinguish between truth and falsehood. That forewarns us against being deceived. - To Accept Revelations of the Spirit of God:
The carnal man cannot receive the things of the spirit. Many believe blinded minds can’t possess the perfect knowledge or discern deep revelation. Only discerning believers can experience unusual events or manifestations of God.
Practical Steps to Walk with Discernment
So, how do we nurture this discernment in our daily lives? Here are some of the steps to help you stay spiritually sharp and follow the spirit of the truth:
- Give your life to Jesus:
The first step is to surrender your life to Jesus Christ. He is the truth and the only person that can give the spirit of truth.” Jesus answered, “I am the way truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 - Abstain from every form of Evil:
God’s will for our life as believers is our sanctification, abstaining from fleshly lust, which war against the soul. Take heed, be on guard, and make your body, spirit and soul blameless unto the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 5:22 - Take your Stand on God’s Word:
Study and read God’s word daily. Let the word of the Lord lead you to recognise the truth and be familiar with what it says. Dedicate your time to know him more through his word and Christian literature. - Be Prayerful:
Pray against deception and ask more for the spirit of discernment and wisdom. Pray to God to help you see clearly in all situations so that you can honour him. - Prove all things:
Test all things that come your way. Don’t do or decide on anything without tabling it before your Father in heaven. Exercising the gift of discernment is a great tool you must learn to use as a Christian.
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