The Importance of Discernment

The Importance of Discernment:

Introduction

In the book of Job, Elihu, one of Job’s friends, makes the statement: “For the ear tests words as the palate tastes food. Let us choose for ourselves what is right; Let us understand among ourselves what is good.” (Job 34:3-4)

This statement is a reminder of the importance of discernment. Discernment is the ability to judge what is true, right, and good. It is essential for making wise decisions in life.

The Importance of Discernment in the Bible

The Bible teaches us the importance of discernment in many places. For example, in the book of Proverbs, we are told: “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.” (Proverbs 18:15)

We are also told in the book of Ecclesiastes: “The discerning see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it.” (Ecclesiastes 10:8)

These verses teach us that discernment is important for avoiding danger and making wise decisions.

So how can we develop discernment?

A few ideas:

✝️Be a good listener. The first step to discernment is to be a good listener. This means paying attention to what people are saying, both verbally and nonverbally. It also means being open to new ideas and perspectives.

✝️Be willing to learn. Discernment requires a willingness to learn. This means being open to new information and being willing to change your mind when presented with new evidence.

✝️Be humble. Discernment also requires humility. This means being willing to admit when you are wrong and being open to the insights of others.

✝️Pray for wisdom. Finally, we develop discernment by praying for wisdom from God. James 1:5 tells us that if we ask God for wisdom, he will give it to us generously.

The Benefits of Discernment

There are many benefits to having discernment. Discernment helps us:

• Make wise decisions

• Avoid danger

• Protect ourselves from deception

• Identify true friends from false friends

• Navigate difficult situations

• Live a more fulfilling life

Conclusion

The ability to discern what is true, right, and good is important for living a wise and fulfilling life. The Bible teaches us the importance of discernment and gives us tips on how to develop it.

If we want to make wise decisions and live a life that is pleasing to God, we must cultivate discernment.

Source

▪️The Bible: Proverbs 18:15; Ecclesiastes 10:8; James 1:5

▪️The Catechism of the Catholic Church: paragraphs 1806-1816

▪️The Book of Common Prayer: The General Confession

▪️The writings of the saints: St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross

▪️The works of modern theologians: C.S. Lewis, Dorothy Sayers, Henri Nouwen

🌹Each morning, I receive an inspiring wake-up call from His Excellency, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Selvister Ponnumuthan, the Bishop of Punalur in Kerala, India. Today’s blog post draws inspiration from the verses he shared in his morning message.