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How to Develop Spiritual Discernment to Know the Enemy
Hey Beloved Warrior!
Okay, so let's talk about something absolutely crucial in our walk with Christ, especially when we consider the spiritual realities around us. We've touched on our identity, our authority, and the supernatural power available to us. Now, let's get into a key that helps us navigate it all: Discernment. It’s vital because, as Jesus warned us, there's an enemy who has a very different agenda.
📖 John 10:10 (KJV) lays it out plainly: "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." Understanding this contrast is where discernment begins!
What is Spiritual Discernment, Anyway?
Think of discernment as having spiritual radar, a God-given ability to distinguish between what's from Him, what's from our own flesh, and what's from the enemy. It’s about tuning into the Holy Spirit and recognizing not just a full-blown attack, but also the subtle tactics, deceptive influences, and counterfeit "truths" that can lead us astray. It's more than just good judgment; it's a spiritual insight granted by God.
It's like being a spiritual detective, looking for the fingerprints of God versus the smudges of the enemy. The Bible is clear that our real battles aren't always what they seem on the surface. 📖 Ephesians 6:12 (KJV) reminds us: "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Discernment helps us see beyond the natural to understand the spiritual dynamics at play.
Quick Question: Has there ever been a time when you felt a "check" in your spirit about something, even if it looked good on the outside? That could have been the Holy Spirit prompting your discernment! Reflect on what that felt like.
Sharpening Your Spiritual Senses
So, how do we develop this vital gift and skill? It's not just for a select few; it's something every believer can grow in!
- Renew Your Mind: The world constantly bombards us with its values and perspectives. We need a different filter. 📖 Romans 12:2 (KJV) instructs us, "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." A renewed mind, saturated with God's Word, is key to discerning His will.
- Test the Spirits: Not every spiritual-sounding thing is from God. 📖 1 John 4:1-3 (KJV) gives us a direct command: "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world." We must examine the source and the message.
- Prove All Things: Building on testing, we're also told in 📖 1 Thessalonians 5:21 (KJV), "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." This means carefully examining teachings, prophecies, and influences against the unchanging standard of God's Word.
- Mature Through Practice: Discernment grows as we use it. 📖 Hebrews 5:14 (KJV) says, "But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." The more we practice listening to the Holy Spirit and applying God's Word, the sharper our discernment becomes.
- Recognize the Gift: For some, discernment is a specific spiritual gift. 📖 1 Corinthians 12:10 (KJV) lists "discerning of spirits" among the gifts given by the Holy Spirit for the edification of the church. If this is a gift you operate in, steward it well! If not, we can all grow in general discernment.
- Put on the Armor: The whole armor of God described in 📖 Ephesians 6:10-18 (KJV) is essential. From the "helmet of salvation" (guarding our minds) to the "sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God," each piece helps us stand firm and discern truth from error. Being "strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might" (Ephesians 6:10) is foundational.
And of course, consistent prayer, diligent study of the Word, and seeking wise, godly counsel are indispensable practices for growing in discernment.
Scripture Meditation: The Litmus Test
Let's meditate on this crucial instruction:
📖 1 John 4:1 (KJV) – "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world."
This isn't about being suspicious of everyone, but about being wise and spiritually alert. What does "trying the spirits" look like for you in a practical way? How can you apply this test to the messages and influences you encounter daily?
Final Thoughts: Your Spiritual GPS
Beloved, discernment is like your spiritual GPS, helping you navigate the often-confusing terrain of life and spiritual influences. It protects you, guides you, and empowers you to walk in truth.
- Are you actively asking God to increase your discernment?
- How often do you test what you hear and see against the truth of God's Word?
- Are you quick to dismiss those inner "nudges" or "checks" from the Holy Spirit?
Developing discernment is an ongoing journey, but it's one that leads to greater freedom, wisdom, and closeness with God.
Let's Continue This Journey
Let the encouragement from 📖 Ephesians 6:10 (KJV) resonate with you: "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." Your strength for discernment and for all spiritual life comes from Him!
Remember: God desires for you to walk in clarity and truth. He has given you the tools and His Spirit to discern well!
Ponder 🤔 What's one practical step you can take this week to sharpen your spiritual discernment? Write it down and do it!
Share this post with fellow believers who desire to grow in knowing God's voice and recognizing the enemy's tactics!
Stay tuned, because next we'll dive even deeper into understanding and engaging in spiritual warfare with the wisdom and discernment God provides! 🙌