Discernment is a critical concept in the Bible, often associated with wisdom, understanding, and the ability to judge well. It is the spiritual capacity to distinguish between truth and error, right and wrong, 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 false teachings.

In the Old Testament, discernment is frequently linked with wisdom. King 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." This request pleased God, who granted Solomon unparalleled wisdom and discernment.

The New Testament continues to highlight the necessity of discernment for Christians. In Philippians 1:9-10 , the Apostle 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 a discerning heart is essential for spiritual growth and moral integrity.

Discernment is also a gift of the Holy Spirit, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 12:10 , where Paul lists "the ability to distinguish between spirits" as one of the spiritual gifts. This gift enables believers to recognize the influence of the Holy Spirit versus that of evil spirits, ensuring that they follow God's guidance rather than being led astray.

The Bible warns against the lack of discernment, which can lead to spiritual blindness and vulnerability to false teachings. Hebrews 5:14 states, "But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil." This verse underscores the importance of spiritual maturity and the continuous practice of discernment to develop a keen sense of judgment.

Focus

Focus, in a biblical context, refers to the concentration of one's mind and heart on God and His purposes. It involves prioritizing spiritual matters over worldly distractions and maintaining a steadfast commitment to living according to God's will. The Bible encourages believers to fix their eyes on Jesus and the eternal truths of Scripture, rather than being swayed by the temporary concerns of this world.

In the Old Testament, focus is exemplified in the Shema, a central declaration of faith in Deuteronomy 6:4-5 : "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One. And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." This commandment calls for an undivided devotion to God, emphasizing the need for a focused heart and mind.

The New Testament reinforces the importance of focus through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In Matthew 6:33 , Jesus instructs, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This verse highlights the priority of focusing on God's kingdom above all else, trusting that He will provide for our needs.

The Apostle Paul also speaks to the necessity of focus in the Christian life. In Colossians 3:2 , he writes, "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." This exhortation encourages believers to direct their thoughts and desires toward heavenly realities, fostering a mindset that is aligned with God's eternal purposes.

Focus is essential for spiritual endurance and perseverance. Hebrews 12:1-2 urges believers to "run with endurance the race set out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith." By keeping their focus on Christ, believers can overcome obstacles and remain faithful in their spiritual journey.

In summary, discernment and focus are vital attributes for Christians, enabling them to live wisely and purposefully in accordance with God's will. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the teachings of Scripture, believers are equipped to discern truth from error and maintain a steadfast focus on their spiritual calling.