A Word About Discernment By Babatunde Olugboji
What does it mean to discern, or be discerning? The dictionary defines it as ‘to perceive by the sight or some other sense; see, recognize, or apprehend.’ A Bible dictionary describes it as ‘sagacious; sharp-sighted.’ The term discernment and its related terms are derived from the Greek word ‘anakrino,’ which appears in the New Testament. It signifies ‘to differentiate, to separate out by careful investigation, to examine.’ Discernment is the skill of correctly identifying or making judgments, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is closely linked to wisdom.
The Bible itself is said to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrew 4:12). A discerning mind shows wisdom and insight that surpasses what is visible or audible. For instance, God’s Word is described as ‘spiritually discerned.’ To the human mind lacking the Spirit, the divine truth is seen as ‘foolishness’ (1 Corinthians 2:14).
Thus, the Spirit provides us with spiritual discernment. King Solomon is renowned for his keen discernment, which led to numerous wise decisions and moral judgments (1 Kings 3:9, 11). Christians today are also encouraged to be discerning. Paul prayed for believers to ‘discern what is best…. until the day of Christ’ (Philippians 1:10). 
A discerning individual recognizes the value of God’s Word: ‘All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse. To the discerning, all of them are right; they are without fault to those who have understanding” (Proverbs 8:8-9). The pursuit of discernment is a goal for those who wish to live a righteous life: ‘Who is wise? He will understand these things. Who is discerning? He will grasp them. The ways of the Lord are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious fall into them’ (Hosea 14:9).
We are commanded to ‘hate what is evil; hold fast to what is good’ (Romans 12:9). However, without true discernment, how can we differentiate between what is ‘evil’ and what is ‘good’? To maintain the purity of the gospel, the church must distinguish truth from heresy. Wisdom also requires us to properly differentiate between what is ‘best’ and what is merely ‘good.’ Discernment offers numerous additional benefits.
‘My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let them escape your sight; they will be a blessing to you, an ornament to your neck. Then you will proceed safely, and your steps will not falter; when you lie down, you will not be fearful; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet’ (Proverbs 3:21-24). Just as Solomon sought discernment and wisdom (Proverbs 1:2; 1 Kings 3:9-12) to explore divine work (Ecclesiastes 1:13) and seek the meaning of life (Ecclesiastes 12:13), so should believers seek ‘the wisdom that comes from heaven’ (James 3:17). 
We must study the Scriptures that are “able to enlighten you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15). May our prayers be ‘I am your servant; give me discernment that I may understand your commandments’ (Psalms 119:125).
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