A life based in the truth in love requires us to mature. “Speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ” (Ephesians 4:15 NASB). This is a place that we exercise our spiritual senses to discern both good and evil: “For everyone who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is an infant; But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil” (Hebrews 5:13-14 NASB).
“Discerning of spirits” is one of the spiritual gifts listed in 1 Corinthians 12:10, which I believe is one of the most needed spiritual gifts in these end days.
When I first started to learn about spiritual discernment, I “felt bad” because I felt I was being critical and judgmental of the people or situations that I was discerning. The Lord told me to pray for the person(s) or situation I was discerning in order to keep myself from being judgmental and critical. It works!
A dear friend, Sara Robbins, pointed out that “many do not understand the importance of discerning good and evil. I think a lot of people don’t lean into it due to misunderstanding of “judging.” There’s a certain amount of judgment one must make in using discernment. It is very important to use discernment, but the discernment MUST be out of His love and wisdom, instead of fear.”
Can I hear a big AMEN?! All godly discernment is definitely based out of His love, wisdom, understanding, counsel, et cetera.
Another dear friend, Suzanne Bridges, shared: “I feel as time continues, it is of most urgency that we operate in discerning of spirits (plural). This can be a great blessing and strong protection.” Then she shared an incredible example. “I remember years ago being at a conference where Bobby Connor was speaking. He spoke on the need for discernment in the Body of Christ. He shared an experience that I’ve never forgotten. He’d been asked to come and speak into a church that was going through all kinds of issues. The congregation, in an effort to determine the place of “access,” increased intercession throughout the week. To their frustration, just as it seemed they’d advance, something would create whiplash in the midst of “freak” events (financially, relationally, etc). Bobby asked to attend one of the intercession meetings. The prayer leader began praying in the spirit with the others. In just a few minutes, Bobby shut the meeting down, and chastised the pastor and leadership for not operating in discernment and protecting the sheep. He informed them that the prayer leader was speaking in a wrong spirit and casting spells; he discerned she was indeed a witch. She left; he led them in repentance. The church contacted him later, and shared that there had been a complete turn-around for the good. They started interceding as a congregation for the discerning of spirits. Holy Spirit taught me to pray for discernment to be married to wisdom and understanding. This helped me considerably. Discernment can be overwhelming when first started… so much info. However, wisdom provides an action (if needed or not); and understanding explains. Often times, understanding will stop fear in its track.”
Discernment is gold!!! Remember, when we discern both good and evil, we are simply recognizing or perceiving something, which is not participation. In order to abhor what is evil and cling to what is good (Rom. 12:9), we have to be able to distinguish between the two. We don’t dwell on the evil, but rightly judge something’s essence (in truth and love) in order to not be in agreement with darkness or evil; and thus, keep ourselves from being deceived.
Never lay down your discernment. Be of noble character and check out the veracity of what’s being taught via His Spirit and His Truth (the Word of God).
One last thing that I’d like to mention about discernment is I see a lot is people seem to lay down their own discernment when it comes to leaders. I encourage you to especially discern leaders, especially discern “big names.” You and I are personally accountable for what we allow into our life. Blinding trusting anyone is not wise. Among us are wolves in sheep clothing: “Beware of false prophets [teachers], who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:15-16a NKJV Addition mine).
Give em heaven!!!
Robin Main
www.sapphirethroneministries.com
www.santa-tizing.com
www.mysticmentoring.com
Written May 13, 2019 – Sapphire Throne Ministries – Robin Main. Copyrighted – If you are going to copy this, please copy it right by giving attributions to this source.
Originally published => https://www.facebook.com/SapphireThroneMinistries/photos/a.436008649804968/2704640156275128/?type=3&theater
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