Discernment in advice is a critical aspect of Christian living, emphasizing the ability to judge well and distinguish between truth and falsehood, wisdom and folly, especially when receiving counsel from others. The Bible provides numerous insights into the importance of discernment and how believers can cultivate this essential skill.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of discernment is deeply rooted in Scripture. Proverbs 2:3-5 encourages believers to seek discernment as they would silver or hidden treasures, promising that such pursuit leads to the "fear of the LORD" and the "knowledge of God." This passage underscores the value of discernment as a divine gift that requires earnest seeking and prayer.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul highlights the importance of discernment in Philippians 1:9-10 , where he prays that the love of the Philippians "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 linked with love and moral purity, suggesting that it is essential for living a life pleasing to God.

Role of the Holy Spirit

Discernment is not merely a human ability but is greatly enhanced by the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 2:14 , Paul explains that "the natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned." This indicates that true discernment is a spiritual gift, enabling believers to understand and apply God's wisdom in their lives.

Practical Application

The Bible provides practical guidance on how to exercise discernment in advice. Proverbs 11:14 states, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." This suggests that seeking advice from multiple sources can provide a broader perspective and help in making wise decisions. However, discernment is necessary to evaluate the quality and motives of the advice given.

James 1:5 offers further encouragement, stating, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." This verse reassures believers that God is willing to provide the wisdom needed to discern rightly, especially when faced with difficult decisions.

Warnings Against False Counsel

The Bible also warns against false counsel and the need for discernment to avoid deception. In Matthew 7:15 , Jesus cautions, "Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves." This metaphor highlights the danger of deceptive advice that appears benign but is ultimately harmful.

1 John 4:1 further instructs believers to "test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world." This testing requires discernment to ensure that the advice aligns with biblical truth and the character of God.

Cultivating Discernment

To cultivate discernment, believers are encouraged to immerse themselves in Scripture, as Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word of God as "living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." Regular engagement with the Bible sharpens one's ability to discern truth from error.

Additionally, prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit are vital. Romans 12:2 advises, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." This transformation through the renewal of the mind is essential for developing discernment in all areas of life, including the advice one receives.