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Grace of Discernment

Discernment

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Jerry Oginni
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6 views

Grace of Discernment

Discernment

Uploaded by

Jerry Oginni
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Grace of Discernment

Introduction

Today, we gather to reflect upon the grace of discernment, a divine gift that enables us to
perceive and understand the will of God in our lives. Our foundation for this discussion
comes from 1 Samuel 3:9, where the young prophet Samuel responds to the call of God
with the words, "Speak, for your servant is listening."

In this passage, Samuel demonstrates a profound sense of discernment. He originally


didn't recognize the voice of God, but he was humble and he obeyed the words of Eli the
prophet which led him to recognise the voice of God (1 Samuel 3:3-9). This ability to discern
the divine presence and guidance is a grace that we too can seek and cultivate in our lives.
What we need to do to be a candidate of the School of
Discernment :-

1: Stillness and Listening

To develop the grace of discernment, we must learn the art of stillness and attentive
listening, just as Samuel did. In the midst of our busy lives, we often miss the subtle
promptings of God. By creating space for silence and contemplation, we open ourselves to
hear God's voice more clearly.

2: Scripture and Prayer

Discernment is not a solitary endeavor. Engaging with Scripture and spending time in
prayer allows us to align our hearts with God's truth. The Word of God becomes a lamp to
our feet, guiding us along the right path (Psalm 119:105). Through prayer, we invite the Holy
Spirit to guide our thoughts and decisions.

3: Seeking Godly Counsel

Proverbs 15:22 reminds us, "Without counsel, plans fail, but with many advisers, they
succeed." Seeking wisdom from trusted mentors, spiritual leaders, and fellow believers can
provide invaluable insights when we face difficult decisions. Their perspectives can help us
navigate complex situations with greater clarity.

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4: Discerning Spirits

1 John 4:1 urges us to "test the spirits to see whether they are from God." Not every
influence or idea that comes our way is aligned with God's will. The grace of discernment
empowers us to differentiate between the promptings of the Holy Spirit and the deceptions
of the world or our own desires.

5: Fruit of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience,
kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. As we grow in our
relationship with God, these qualities become markers of our discernment. When we are
faced with choices, we can assess whether they align with the fruit of the Spirit.

In conclusion, the story of Samuel teaches us that discernment is a grace we can actively
pursue. Through stillness, scripture, prayer, wise counsel, and the fruit of the Spirit, we can
develop the ability to hear God's voice amidst the noise of the world. Let us strive for
discerning hearts, so that like Samuel, we may respond, "Speak, for your servant is
listening." May the grace of discernment guide us in all our ways. Amen.

Prayer point

1. O Lord endure me with the spirit of discernment in Jesus name.


2. Grace to be steadfast in the work with God overshadow me in Jesus
name.
3. I receive the mantle of honour in Jesus name.

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4. Holy Spirit enlighten my steps with the wisdom from above in Jesus
name.
5. Fresh oil and power incumbent me in Jesus name.
6. I walk in dominion authority in Jesus name.
7. I arise and shine in Jesus name.

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