Spiritual Gift – Discernment
November 2015
Discernment is the heightened ability to read or hear a teaching, to encounter a problem, or to consider a proposed course of action, and then determine whether the source behind the teaching, problem, or action is accurate or properly representing the truth.
This gift equips one to know instinctively what is going on beyond the surface, whether of a situation or an individual. Those with the gift of discernment have the ability to determine genuineness or phoniness.
People with this gift are unusually capable of recognizing inconsistencies in relationships, behavior, motives and teaching. They can quickly perceive the truth about these things or sense that something does not fit. They are able to understand potential consequences and warn or encourage others to think through more carefully.
Having someone who has this gift can provide insight that is intuitive and objective.
Spiritual Gifts Passage on Discernment include the following:
“. . . to another distinguishing between spirits” (1 Cor. 12:10). (NIV)
“. . . to another the discernment of spirits” (1 Cor. 12:10). (NRSV)
Characteristics of persons empowered with the spiritual gift of discernment
- Are good judges of character
- Are able to understand different personality types
- Are aware of things that go on under the surface in people and situations
- Can quickly recognize authenticity and see through falsity
- Can sense the Spirit’s working (forces of good) and Satan’s attacks (forces of evil)
Application for Church Ministry
- Always be looking for people who might be good at a particular ministry or leadership role, note their good qualities, and share what you discern with them or with church leaders
- When people are put up for leadership, be alert to any false motives or lack of character
- Help leaders put together ministry teams or suggest people to recruit for a ministry role
Application for Family
- Be alert to spiritual attacks against your spouse, marriage, children, or other family relationships and warn family members when you see Satan or others attacking - When making important decisions or meeting with people for the first time, share your intuitive insights with your family
- Look for and note positive people or situations that you can direct family members to
Testimony/Example of Those Who Have Used This Gift:
Kevin, real estate agent, married, father of two young children--“My gift of Discernment is most apparent when I’m having a conversation with someone. I have a way of knowing whether the words they speak are sincere or empty. I do best when I have a conversation with one person at a time and not in a group setting. I give my full attention to the other person, and I put a lot of energy into studying their behavior. I read body language, listen to how words are emphasized, pick up on hesitation in sentences, and I key into tones. From these clues along with their words I’m able to recognize what’s most meaningful to them, what they have passion for, and where their heart is. I can tell what their true motives really are, and if the words they speak match up with their feelings.
Sources: LeaderTreks Self Leadership
Acts 17:11 Bible Studies http://www.acts17-11.com/dialogs_gift_discernment.html