Spiritual DiscernmentPrimjer

Constant Use

Developing spiritual discernment takes intentionality in the Word, but it also requires consistency. Our key scripture (Hebrews 5:14) talks about training ourselves through constant use. However, being consistent in our habits (whether natural habits or spiritual habits) isn’t always easy!

When it comes to the Word of God, it is important to nurture the right desires. The scriptures can become dry if we are just looking for information. Remember that the Pharisees didn’t recognize Jesus even though they studied the scriptures diligently. The right desire is for heart revelation, not head knowledge. The best foundation when meditating on His Word comes from a desire to know and understand who God is. When we open the scriptures with a genuine hunger, we will hear His voice with increasing clarity and know Him in a personal and intimate relationship. Consistent hunger and regular spiritual feeding results in joy and delight as He reveals Himself to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!

Bible meditation can include many facets—including reading or studying the written Word, writing out and memorizing scriptures, and focused thinking or pondering on the scriptures. But to meditate also means to utter, speak, or even roar! Meditation includes declaring God’s written words so that they become life to us, so that His heart naturally overflows from our mouth.

One of the blessings of a desire for knowing God through His Word is that with constant use comes understanding. Psalm 119:169 says, “May my cry come before you, Lord; give me understanding according to your word.”

The word understanding in this scripture (used many times in the Old Testament) is the Hebrew word "biyn," and it means to separate mentally or distinguish, to have discernment, and to perceive. It is inherently simple; the more we hold fast to His Word and delight in his commands, the more God gives us understanding and spiritual discernment. The more we meditate on His Word, the more we are able to reflexively separate good from evil, and the more we can understand God’s ways in every moment of every day. Ask the Lord to open your eyes, so that you can see wonderful things in His Word!