Discernment is a critical concept in the Bible, often associated with wisdom, understanding, and the ability to judge well. It is the spiritual insight that enables believers to distinguish between truth and error, right and wrong, and good and evil. The Bible emphasizes the importance of discernment in the life of a believer, as it is essential for spiritual growth and maturity.

In the Old Testament, discernment is frequently linked with wisdom. Solomon, renowned for his wisdom, prayed for discernment to govern the people of Israel effectively. In 1 Kings 3:9 , Solomon asks, "Give Your servant, therefore, an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?" This request pleased the Lord, highlighting the value God places on discernment.

The New Testament continues to underscore the importance of discernment. In Philippians 1:9-10 , Paul prays for the believers, saying, "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and be pure and blameless for the day of Christ." Here, discernment is connected with love and knowledge, suggesting that it is not merely an intellectual exercise but also a matter of the heart.

Discernment is also a gift of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 12:10 , Paul lists "the ability to distinguish between spirits" as one of the spiritual gifts. This gift is crucial for the church to identify false teachings and maintain doctrinal purity.

The Bible warns against the lack of discernment, which can lead to spiritual deception. In Hebrews 5:14 , the author writes, "But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil." This passage suggests that discernment is developed through practice and spiritual maturity.

Excellence

Excellence in the Bible is often associated with moral and spiritual superiority, as well as the pursuit of the highest standards in one's conduct and work. It reflects the character of God, who is perfect in all His ways, and serves as a model for believers to emulate.

The concept of excellence is evident in the creation narrative, where God declares His creation "very good" (Genesis 1:31). This sets a precedent for the standard of excellence that God desires in all things. Believers are called to reflect this excellence in their lives, as they are created in the image of God.

In the New Testament, the call to excellence is reiterated. In Colossians 3:23-24 , Paul instructs, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." This passage emphasizes that excellence in work and conduct is an act of worship and service to God.

Excellence is also linked with moral and spiritual virtues. In 2 Peter 1:5-7 , Peter encourages believers to "make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love." The pursuit of these virtues is a pursuit of excellence in the Christian life.

The Bible also presents examples of individuals who exemplified excellence. Daniel is noted for his exceptional qualities and integrity, which distinguished him among his peers (Daniel 6:3). His commitment to excellence in his service to the king and his unwavering faithfulness to God serve as a model for believers.

In summary, discernment and excellence are intertwined in the biblical narrative, calling believers to a life of wisdom, moral integrity, and the pursuit of the highest standards in all aspects of life. These qualities are essential for spiritual growth and effective witness in the world.