Discernment and Testing in Our Walk with Christ
Let’s dig in to how we navigate our daily choices and search for God’s will in our lives:
1 Corinthians 6:12 says, "I have the right to do anything," you say, but not everything is beneficial. I have the right to do anything but I will not be mastered by anything." Our freedom in Christ is not without boundaries. Not every opportunity is beneficial, and not every temptation should master us.
1 Corinthians 10:23 reinforces this: "I have the right to do anything, you say, but not everything is beneficial. I have the right to do anything, but not everything is constructive." Our choices matter, and we are called to seek what builds us up and brings God glory.
Romans 12:2 encourages us: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is, his good, pleasing and perfect will." Renewing our minds helps us discern God's direction amid a noisy culture.
Philippians 1:9-10 prays: "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ." Love coupled with wisdom enables us to make choices that align with God's best.
Finally, 1 Thessalonians 5:21 instructs us: “Test everything. Hold on to what is good." Our spiritual maturity depends on testing and embracing what aligns with God's truth.
As followers of Christ, our freedom isn't a license to do anything but an invitation to choose what is beneficial, constructive, and aligned with God's will. Renew your mind by stayingin His Word daily, love deeply, test all things, and hold on to what is good. Let these scriptures guide you in making discerning choices every day
Prayer:
Lord, help me to use Your Word responsibly. Renew my mind, deepen my love and wisdom, and give me discernment to choose what is good and pleasing in Your sight. Teach me to test everything and hold tightly to what is true. In Jesus’ name, Amen.