How can we apply the principle of discernment from Leviticus 11:19 today? Setting the Scene in Leviticus 11 “the stork, the heron of any kind, the hoopoe, and the bat.” (Leviticus 11:19) In one short verse the Lord marks certain birds as “unclean.” While the ceremonial food laws no longer bind New-Covenant believers (Acts 10:13-15; Mark 7:18-19), the principle of discernment—distinguishing what is fitting for a people set apart—remains vital. Why God Drew These Lines • God loves His people enough to direct even their everyday choices. • Holiness is more than symbolic; it is practical separation from what corrupts (Leviticus 11:44-45; 1 Peter 1:15-16). • Discernment teaches Israel—and us—to trust God’s definitions over personal preference (Proverbs 3:5-6). Principle Carried Forward Hebrews 5:14 reminds us that “solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil.” Discernment is still trained, still necessary, and still tied to obedience. Practicing Discernment Today 1. What We Feed Our Minds • Entertainment: Filter movies, music, podcasts through Philippians 4:8. • News & social media: Refuse gossip, outrage, and fear-mongering that eclipse God’s peace (Isaiah 26:3). 2. What We Permit into Our Homes • Technology: Parental controls, device-free dinner tables, and curated apps safeguard purity (Psalm 101:3). • Literature & décor: Choose items that reinforce, not undermine, a Christ-honoring worldview. 3. How We Steward Relationships • Close friendships: “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” (1 Corinthians 15:33) • Dating & marriage: Align with 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; seek partners who elevate spiritual growth. 4. Financial Discernment • Spending: Purchase ethically, avoiding businesses that profit from immorality (Proverbs 3:9-10). • Giving: Support ministries and causes that advance the gospel (2 Corinthians 9:7). 5. Time Management • “Look carefully then how you walk… making the most of the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16) • Calendar choices—church gatherings, family worship, acts of service—reveal what we deem “clean” or “unclean” use of hours. Guardrails Against Two Extremes • Legalism: Discernment is never about earning God’s favor; Christ has done that (Ephesians 2:8-9). • License: Grace does not erase the call to holiness (Romans 6:1-2). Encouragement for the Journey • Regular Word intake sharpens spiritual senses (Psalm 119:105). • Prayerful dependence invites the Spirit’s guidance (James 1:5). • Community accountability keeps discernment from becoming isolated judgment (Hebrews 10:24-25). Leviticus 11:19 may list birds we will likely never eat, yet behind the ban lies a timeless call: God’s people must develop a keen eye for what honors Him and what does not—then choose accordingly. |
    |