Discernment

Discernment is a critical concept in the Bible, often associated with wisdom, understanding, and the ability to judge well. It involves the capacity to perceive and distinguish between right and wrong, truth and falsehood, and to make decisions that align with God's will. The Bible emphasizes the importance of discernment for believers, as it enables them to navigate the complexities of life and maintain their faith in a world filled with deception and moral ambiguity.

In the Old Testament, discernment is frequently linked with wisdom. King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom, is a prime example of discernment. When God offered Solomon anything he desired, Solomon asked for "an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil" (1 Kings 3:9). This request pleased God, who granted Solomon unparalleled wisdom and discernment.

The New Testament continues to highlight the necessity of discernment for Christians. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, prays that their "love may abound more and more in knowledge and all discernment" (Philippians 1:9). This discernment is essential for approving what is excellent and being pure and blameless for the day of Christ.

Discernment is also a spiritual gift, as noted in 1 Corinthians 12:10, where Paul lists "the ability to distinguish between spirits" as one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. This gift is crucial for the early church and believers today, as it helps in identifying false teachings and maintaining doctrinal purity.

Approval

Approval in the biblical context often refers to the process of testing and proving what is acceptable and pleasing to God. It involves a careful examination of actions, teachings, and beliefs to ensure they align with divine standards. Approval is closely related to discernment, as discernment provides the insight necessary to make judgments that lead to God's approval.

Romans 12:2 urges believers not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, "so that you may be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God" . This transformation and renewal are essential for discerning God's will and living a life that meets His approval.

In 2 Timothy 2:15, Paul instructs Timothy to "present yourself approved to God, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth" . This approval comes from diligent study and correct application of Scripture, ensuring that one's life and ministry are in accordance with God's truth.

Approval is not only about personal conduct but also about the teachings and practices within the church. In 1 Thessalonians 5:21, believers are encouraged to "test all things; hold fast to what is good" . This testing ensures that the church remains faithful to the gospel and rejects false doctrines.

In summary, discernment and approval are intertwined concepts in the Bible, essential for living a life that honors God. Discernment provides the insight needed to distinguish between truth and error, while approval involves the testing and validation of what aligns with God's will. Together, they guide believers in their spiritual journey, ensuring faithfulness to God's commands and teachings.