15d • Devotionals
Spirit-Trained Discernment
Opening Thought
Have you ever wondered why some Christians seem to “just know” when something is off? It’s not because they’re smarter. It’s because their spiritual senses have been trained by the Holy Spirit. That’s what Hebrews 5:14 means when it says maturity comes from having our powers of discernment trained by constant practice.
A Conversation About Discernment
Q: What is discernment?
Discernment is simply the Spirit-given ability to see clearly. To tell the difference between truth and lies, wisdom and foolishness, what comes from God and what doesn’t.
Q: How does the Bible talk about it?
Paul says in Romans 12:2 that when our minds are renewed, we can test and approve what God’s will is. John says in 1 John 4:1 not to believe every spirit but to test the spirits. In other words, the Christian life isn’t about blind acceptance but Spirit-led testing.
Q: Did the early church think this was important?
Absolutely. The church fathers called discernment the “charioteer of virtues.” Athanasius said real visions from God bring peace, while false ones stir fear or pride. Cassian said discernment keeps us from extremes. Augustine said the test of discernment is love—if it doesn’t produce love of God and neighbor, it’s not true.
Q: How do modern leaders see it?
Piper reminds us that discernment is more than spotting lies—it’s about delighting in truth. Keller says discernment is truth applied wisely with love. Chan warns not to confuse charisma with God’s Spirit. Platt points out that discernment guards the gospel against distortion. And Willard? He says discernment is about learning to recognize God’s voice above all others.
Q: Okay, but how does the Spirit actually “train” us?
- Through the Word: the Spirit makes Scripture alive, shining light on what is true.
- Through obedience: each step of obedience sharpens our reflexes.
- Through trials: hardships refine us and force us to choose truth under pressure.
- Through inner witness: the Spirit convicts and gives peace like an umpire in our hearts.
- Through community: the Spirit confirms truth through the wise counsel of other believers.
Bringing It Home
So, here’s the question: where do you need the Spirit’s training right now? Is it in the choices you’re making? In knowing who to listen to? In resisting temptation?
Discernment doesn’t grow overnight. It’s like muscles in a gym—trained over time. The Spirit uses the Word, obedience, trials, peace, and community to sharpen us.
Closing Prayer
Lord, open my eyes. Train my spirit to recognize Your voice above all others. Make me quick to obey, steady under trial, and humble enough to listen to godly counsel. Teach me to love truth, reject lies, and walk in wisdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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Spirit-Trained Discernment
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