Acquiring Discernment: Part II

In Nehemiah 6, we discover that Nehemiah was a leader with great discernment. In order to acquire discernment like Nehemiah, I believe there are three elements that may be helpful for us to consider in this series.

The First is to Know God’s Word.

In Nehemiah 6, the prophet Shemaiah was hired to lure Nehemiah inside the temple. But Nehemiah knew that to do so was a violation of Jewish law. Only priests were allowed to enter the temple.

In verse 13, we read Nehemiah’s thoughts about Shemaiah when he writes, “He had been hired to intimidate me so that I would commit a sin by doing this…” However, he resisted and protected his honor by refusing.

If Nehemiah had not been well versed on Jewish law he may have fallen for Shemaiah’s lie. However, you cannot adhere to laws you do not know. Careful study and meditation on the Lord’s word will protect you from numerous traps and pitfalls. God gave us a written account of his scriptures for a reason.

Nehemiah’s discernment came from knowing God’s Word. It would be wise and discerning for us to learn and know Scripture as well.

Questions for Reflection

• How well do you know the word of God? Have you ever studied it seriously? Taken a course in Biblical interpretation or been involved in Bible studies?
• What would you consider Biblical truths? What verses or passages support that belief? How are you living out that truth?
• How might studying God's Word better enhance your discernment?