Discernment

dis·cern·ment

1. the ability to judge well.

2. perception in the absence of judgment with a view to obtaining spiritual guidance and understanding.

Military and spiritual discernment share similarities in approaching life's obstacles. Both stress strategic thinking, foresight, and a deep understanding of the environment. In the military, discernment involves assessing situations, identifying threats, and making informed decisions. Similarly, in a spiritual context, discernment means recognizing unseen forces, understanding challenges, and making choices aligned with faith and values.

A key parallel is the acknowledgment of hidden threats. In the military, soldiers learn to uncover potential dangers. In a spiritual context, discernment involves awareness of spiritual forces impacting one's path. Both emphasize looking beyond the surface and being attuned to subtle signs.

Military and biblical discernment require a strong sense of purpose and commitment to a higher cause. Soldiers are driven by a mission and duty, while spiritual discernment is guided by a commitment to divine principles, providing a foundation for decision-making.

Adaptability is another common theme. In the military, plans adjust based on the dynamic battlefield. Similarly, spiritual discernment requires flexibility in response to unexpected challenges. The ability to assess and adapt is crucial in both contexts.

The Bible addresses the concept of spiritual discernment in various passages, emphasizing its significance in the life of believers: "The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things, but such a person is not subject to merely human judgments."

This passage underscores the idea that spiritual discernment is a function of the Holy Spirit. It suggests that those who are spiritually attuned can understand and make judgments about matters that go beyond mere human understanding.

Believers are to seek wisdom and discernment through prayer and building a close relationship with God: "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."

Throughout scripture, we find people, young and old, rich and poor, bold and meek, seeking guidance and discernment from God to navigate challenges and make righteous decisions. The overall message? Spiritual discernment is a valuable aspect of the Christian journey, and it comes through a reliance on the Holy Spirit, prayer, and seeking God's wisdom.

Whether facing physical or spiritual obstacles, discernment emphasizes wisdom, insight, and a connection to something greater. Integrating these principles allows individuals to navigate life's complexities with a strategic and spiritually grounded mindset, fostering resilience through challenges.