Lately, the word discernment has been on my mind and how it relates to wisdom. I’ve found myself using “discernment” in my requests in my prayer time with God. I’ve asked for God’s discernment in my own life and also for other’s who are facing critical decisions too (from job changes/opportunities, critical health decisions, and much more). In a world full of “noise” and “chatter” from social media to self-help books, advice from friends and co-workers, and even podcasts from experts, it can be easy to get lots of input when faced with decisions.
As a believer, I know firsthand, sometimes it can be overwhelming with all the voices and input and hard to be still and listen for truth. When we think about the term wisdom, it is easy to think of it as simply sound advice. In this blog, I share what I believe are some key principles for discernment that certainly pertains wisdom but more than that as well. Discernment is the ability to recognize truth, while godly wisdom gives us the understanding to act on that truth. Together, they anchor us in God’s will and help us navigate life with confidence and faith.
What Is Discernment?
Discernment is more than intuition or a gut feeling; it is a Holy Spirit-empowered ability to distinguish between truth and error, right and wrong, and God’s will versus our own desires. (Did you catch that….read that last sentence again and this time, really focus on the second part: “God’s will versus our own desires”). I think that is the key difference between discernment and simply solid advice or wisdom. Non-believers and cynics can have wisdom too. The key to discernment, in my opinion, is to include God’s will and not our own.
Discernment is crucial because spiritual deception is subtle. False teaching, ungodly influences, and cultural pressures often appear harmless, but discernment allows believers to see beyond appearances.
Key Aspects of Discernment:
- Clarity: Evaluating situations and teachings through God’s Word.
- Sensitivity: Listening for the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
- Testing: Measuring every thought, choice, and relationship against Scripture (1 John 4:1).
- Protection: Guarding yourself and others from harm by identifying what is not of God.
What Is Godly Wisdom?
If discernment is recognizing the right path, godly wisdom is knowing how to walk it. Unlike worldly wisdom, which focuses on intellect and personal success, godly wisdom flows from a relationship with God and reverence for Him:
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
—Proverbs 9:10
James 3:17 describes godly wisdom as pure, peace-loving, gentle, and full of mercy. It helps us apply biblical truth in practical ways, guiding our decisions and relationships.
Key Aspects of Godly Wisdom:
- Reverence: Rooted in a deep respect for God’s authority.
- Obedience: Choosing to live according to God’s Word.
- Peace: Bringing harmony and righteousness to situations.
- Humility: Recognizing our need for God’s guidance in all things.
How Discernment and Wisdom Work Together
I came across this distinction between discernment and wisdom that I really liked: Discernment allows us to see clearly; wisdom equips us to act righteously. Without discernment, we may lack spiritual awareness, and without wisdom, we may know the truth but fail to apply it correctly. Together, they enable us to:
- Avoid spiritual deception and temptation.
- Make decisions rooted in God’s truth, not emotion or culture.
- Counsel and lead others with confidence.
- Grow into maturity and Christlikeness.
All of that sounds good, right? But how do we gain discernment and Godly wisdom? I know sometimes I wish God would simply appear in the flesh to me and/or the skies would open wide and I would hear this loud booming voice that is crystal clear. But hat is not how it occurs. Wouldn’t it be great if it did? But I think that would be too easy and our relationship in Him wouldn’t grow in that case. So, I think to grow in wisdom and discernment we must:
- Immerse Ourselves in Scripture
God’s Word is the standard for truth and the foundation for discernment (Psalm 119:105). - Pray for Wisdom Daily
James 1:5 promises that God gives wisdom generously to those who ask. - Walk in the Spirit
Stay sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s promptings, allowing Him to guide your steps (Galatians 5:16). - Seek Godly Counsel
Surround yourself with spiritually mature believers who can provide perspective and correction (Proverbs 11:14). - Practice Obedience
Applying God’s truth in daily life sharpens your spiritual senses and deepens discernment (Hebrews 5:14).
Final Thoughts
Wisdom is important, no doubt. And we can gain that wisdom through our experiences (lesson learned) and from others who may have experienced something we haven’t and can speak into our circumstances given their experience. But discernment is wisdom, but with an eye and ear towards God’s will for our lives that we can only get through scripture, time in prayer with him, and the counsel of other believers. Discernment and godly wisdom are essential tools for navigating life in a complex and deceptive world. Discernment gives us clarity, while wisdom teaches us how to respond. Both grow as we abide in Christ, study His Word, and submit to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
When we pursue discernment and wisdom, we begin to see with God’s eyes and walk in His ways—becoming a light to those around us and a testimony of His truth and grace.
