Overview
This teaching explores spiritual discernment, emphasizing its importance in relationships, ministry, and daily life. The session distinguishes between sources of discernment according to the Bible and illustrates how the Holy Spirit equips believers to recognize blessings and avoid harm.
The Role of People in Spiritual Blessing and Harm
- God uses people to bless, and Satan uses people to curse.
- Human encounters bring both physical presence and spiritual influence.
- Discernment is necessary to distinguish those who bless from those who harm.
Types and Sources of Spiritual Discernment
- Three primary biblical sources of discernment:
- The Holy Spirit (gift of discerning of spirits).
- The Anointing (spiritual empowerment).
- The Word of God (scriptural wisdom).
- Spiritual discernment surpasses physical appearance or human reasoning.
Biblical Examples of Discernment
- Jesus’ ministry illustrates progressive manifestation of the Spirit: baptism, filling, testing, and anointing.
- Jesus demonstrated discernment in recognizing people’s spiritual states (e.g., Peter, Nathanael).
- Solomon’s wisdom in judging the two mothers exemplifies discernment by the Word; scriptural principles underpinned his decision.
Function and Operation of Spiritual Gifts
- Spiritual gifts are distributed by the Holy Spirit as He wills, for the benefit of all.
- The gift of discerning spirits identifies both good and evil spiritual influences.
- Anointing provides insight, but it is always directed toward serving others, not self-benefit.
Practical Application and Testimonies
- Discernment can manifest in daily decisions, such as relationships, business choices, and ministry actions.
- The Holy Spirit may reveal hidden truths or warn of danger, as shown by various personal experiences shared.
Importance of Spiritual Maturity
- Growing in the Word sharpens discernment, enabling believers to distinguish good from evil.
- Maturity involves using scripture to guide decisions and interactions.
- Discernment is not based on academic or worldly wisdom.
Key Concepts and Takeaways
- The combination of the Holy Spirit and the Word grants “inside information” for right living.
- Believers should pray for an understanding, wise, and discerning heart.
- Knowing what God has freely given prevents covetousness, anxiety, and wrong associations.
- Associating with the right people, in the right place, at the right time, with the right plan leads to evident progress.
Recommendations / Advice
- Seek discernment through the Holy Spirit, the Word, and the anointing.
- Continually pray for sensitivity to God’s guidance in all relationships and decisions.
- Cultivate maturity by diligent use and application of scripture.
Prayer and Conclusion
- Pray for a fresh anointing and increased spiritual discernment.
- Ask for alignment with right people, place, time, and plan to fulfill God’s purpose effectively.