Philippians 1:9-10 ⁹ I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding (Discernment, insight). ¹⁰ For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. NLT

Why the need for discernment, understanding, or insight? DECEPTION

Our world is full of lies,  false truth,  twisted truth.  Where do we find truth anymore? Most TV reporting, social media, newspapers, and radio promote an agenda. We must be able to gain insight into truth from biblical understanding and Holy Spirit insight. This takes time in the word and in prayer. Deception will increase toward the last days. We must strengthen our understanding and Godly insight. In the last days, the antichrist will be a master deceiver.  He will deceive the world and lead them away from Christ.  He will deceive and cause most to receive a mark on their forehead or hand and doom them to hell.  

Why are we so easily deceived? 

Satan used to be the highest angel in heaven. Envy and self-seeking were found in him as he said Isaiah 14:14 “I will ascend above the tops of the clouds, I will make myself like the Most High” When Adam and Eve sinned, this same darkness filled all mankind. We are born with envy and self-seeking. You never have to train a baby to say “no”, or “I want”. We are by fallen nature self seeking and envious. 

To grow in discernment, and live a pure and blameless life, you must be aware of the fallen nature we all fight in our own lives. These fallen natures are easy targets of deceptions. The more we become aware of our inner struggles, the greater we can discern how to live holy in a troubled world.

Our inner weaknesses.

James 3:13-15 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. ¹⁴ But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. ¹⁵ This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. NLV

Earthly – follow the trends of the world. A follower of crowds, “I’m with them”.  A desire to be accepted by all. There is great pressure to follow the status quo.  The attraction of being part of the current excitement.

Sensual (unspiritual)(by natural appetite)  emotional, animalistic, instinct  –  live by feelings,  allowing emotions to guide your path.  “This is how I feel”,  “I feel it’s right”- making decisions only by your emotion or feelings.

Demonic – witchcraft is on the rise.  Be careful what you read and watch.  Be careful of religions outside of God, Christ & the Holy Spirit.  Songs, books, movies, social media are attracting many to seek demonic forces for guidance.

Four steps to increase discernment

1. Grow in the knowledge of God.  Read the Bible every day.  Read good books about the Bible.  Take notes of sermons. 
2. Repent of sins and attitudes,  Psalms 51:10-11 “Create in me a new heart, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Cast me not away from Your presence, take not Your Holy Spirit away from me.”
3. Patience in God’s Presence.  Rest in His presence.  Many things about God are taught, but some of the deepest  understandings are “CAUGHT” in your spirit while in God’s presence.
4. Don’t let a battle discourage you.  The strongest truths and revelations come from the wilderness. 

Why do we need Godly knowledge and insight (discernment, understanding)? So we can recognize the fallen nature of our own life and the world around us. So we can live a holy life until the day we stand before Christ. Grow in discernment to brighten your lightnside.