Spiritual Practices: Discernment

Life doesn’t always come with clear signs. From daily decisions to deeper questions of calling, we all long to know which way to go—and who or what to trust. Discernment is the spiritual practice of learning to recognize truth, sense God’s direction, and respond wisely. It’s not just about decision-making; it’s about walking with a listening heart.

What Are We Called to Discern?

Scripture shows us that discernment covers a wide range: we are called to distinguish between good and evil, truth and falsehood, wise leadership and manipulation, the flesh and the Spirit, and the voices we follow. At times, we’re discerning doctrine. Other times, we’re seeking God’s will in personal choices or interpreting spiritual impressions.

The goal of discernment is not to become overly cautious or skeptical—but to become rooted, Spirit-sensitive believers who can “approve what is excellent” (Philippians 1:10) and walk in wisdom, even when the way is unclear.

How Do We Practice Discernment?

So how do we actually grow in discernment? Scripture doesn’t leave us guessing. Through story, instruction, and example, we’re shown the practices that help tune our hearts and minds to God’s voice. What follows isn’t a formula, but a framework—a picture of how discernment becomes part of our everyday walk with Him.

1. We Ask for Wisdom

Discernment begins with humility. James tells us, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5). That seems simple enough—but how often do we ask, and then pause long enough to listen?

I was once asked to lead a women’s group that had some internal tensions—two main factions, and not much harmony between them. Multiple people encouraged me to consider it, but I felt completely unsettled. Everything in me wanted to say no. But one night, while pulling something from the freezer, I found myself talking to God about it—just honestly saying, “Lord, if this is from you, you’ll need to take this unsettledness away and make it clear.” A few days later, I felt an unexpected peace and clarity. The situation hadn’t changed, but my spirit had. That’s when I knew—this was what He wanted me to do.

Solomon’s story in 1 Kings 3 reminds us that God honors those who seek understanding—not for personal gain, but for wise and faithful living.

2. We Anchor Ourselves in Scripture

The Word of God is both a compass and a filter. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105). That’s not poetic fluff—it’s practical direction. The better we know Scripture, the better we discern truth from error, right from almost right.

Discernment isn’t just about what we feel; it’s about what aligns with God’s revealed character. When we’re unsure whether something is from God, the first and best question is: Does it match what He has already said?

3. We Grow in Maturity

Discernment develops as we do. Hebrews 5:14 says that mature believers have “their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” That word—exercise—implies training, repetition, and intentional growth.

We don’t become spiritually discerning overnight. It’s a process shaped by faithfulness, failure, correction, and course-correction. Discernment is often formed in the small choices long before the big ones arrive.

4. We Walk in Step with the Spirit

Discernment isn’t just a mental process—it’s relational. 1 Corinthians 2 teaches that the Holy Spirit helps us understand spiritual truth that we couldn’t grasp on our own. Galatians 5 reminds us to walk in the Spirit and be led by Him.

This kind of spiritual listening is quiet work. It often involves waiting, watching, and trusting. Sometimes the Spirit’s direction is confirmed by peace, sometimes by restraint.
Because of my husband’s work, we move every few years—and it’s not something we really get to decide. We don’t get to pray over options or weigh pros and cons. For a while, that felt frustrating. But over time, I’ve learned to trust that the Spirit goes before us. Even when it’s not our choice, God is still leading.

Discernment through the Spirit teaches us to listen not only to our thoughts, but to what God is forming in our hearts.

5. We Discern in Community

We’re not meant to do this alone. The early church modeled communal discernment, especially in Acts 15 when leaders gathered to consider a theological question. Through prayer, discussion, and shared listening, the church came to clarity.

Wise counsel, spiritual mentors, and trusted friends are often part of God’s provision for discernment. When you're unsure, seek input from others who walk closely with God—and be open to correction.

6. We Observe the Fruit

Jesus said, “Ye shall know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). That’s true for people, teachings, and decisions. When we don’t know what to make of something, time often reveals its source. Is it bearing peace, humility, righteousness, and growth? Or is it leaving confusion, pride, or harm in its wake?

James 3:17 says that wisdom from above is “first pure, then peaceable, gentle… full of mercy and good fruits.” That gives us a checklist—not for judging harshly, but for noticing clearly.

Conclusion

Discernment is not about getting every decision right. It’s about learning to listen well, live wisely, and walk in step with God. When we ask for wisdom, immerse ourselves in His Word, grow in maturity, and rely on the Spirit and community, we begin to see more clearly. Not all at once—but enough to take the next step with confidence and peace.