Lesson Two: Discernment
Devotion #4: Seeing is Believing?
Nathan Elliott
Today, the Detroit Lions are one win away from playing in a Super Bowl, and I think to myself, “The Lions in a Super Bowl? How is this even possible?” It is an event so rare and so unbelievable that I almost cannot believe it is real. The mindset of not believing in things unless they are right in front of our eyes, is the same approach we often use with the gift of discernment. We cannot explain it, and we cannot see it. So, what is it? Thankfully, Scripture brings clarity on how we use practical discernment in our daily Christian lives.
Paul writes this in his letter to the Ephesians, “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12). Scripture is clear on the spiritual realm being real, although we cannot see it, we know it exists. Discernment gives us the ability to distinguish between good and evil spirits (1 John 4:1), but also the ability to weigh the motives of our own heart and mind (1 Corinthians 2:14). With those biblical truths in mind, how do we grasp the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 7:6? It reads, “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.”
We should always approach Scripture within the context of the passage or teaching. Verse 6 comes right after a lesson from Jesus on not judging others. Although we are not to judge others, Jesus has also enabled us to use wisdom and discernment in certain situations. God has called us to be holy and righteous like His Son, who is the ultimate example, and we are to treat others with Jesus in mind. However, there are some relationships, some scenarios, and some circumstances where it is okay to walk away. Jesus views our kindness, love, grace, and mercy as treasured pearls. They are valuable to us and profitable to the world. These qualities are given to us by the Spirit of Christ Himself. Unfortunately, there are those who will use and abuse these traits that Christians have been gifted.
Have you been experiencing this recently? Is it time for you to step away from a toxic relationship? Pearls are precious, and so are you. Pray this week that God will give you discernment in your relationships and circumstances. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”