How can we "discern what is pleasing to the Lord" in daily life? Setting the Scene “and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:10) Paul places this invitation in a passage that contrasts “the fruitless deeds of darkness” with the “fruit of the light” (vv. 8–11). Discerning what pleases God is therefore both a privilege and a safeguard, guiding believers away from compromise and toward holy, joyful living. Why Discernment Matters • It guards the heart from deception (Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 24:4). • It fuels spiritual growth and fruitfulness (Philippians 1:9-11). • It showcases Christ’s character to a watching world (Matthew 5:16). • It aligns daily choices with God’s revealed will, bringing assurance and peace (Colossians 3:15-17). Foundational Truths to Embrace • Scripture is God-breathed, wholly true, completely reliable (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • The Holy Spirit indwells every believer to teach and remind us of all Jesus said (John 14:26). • God desires to make His will known; He is not playing hide-and-seek (Jeremiah 33:3). Practical Steps for Daily Discernment Saturate Your Mind with the Word • Read broadly and study deeply. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) • Memorize key verses that speak to recurring decisions or temptations. • Compare all ideas, emotions, and counsel against Scripture’s clear teaching. Cultivate a Responsive Heart in Prayer • Ask God to “open my eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of Your law” (Psalm 119:18). • Leave space for silence, listening for conviction, comfort, or redirection. • Thank Him in advance for clarity, trusting His promise to give wisdom generously (James 1:5). Test Everything by Its Fruit • Does this option lead to righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit? (Romans 14:17) • Will it make Jesus appear beautiful and trustworthy to others? (1 Peter 2:12) • If practiced consistently, will it help or hinder obedience to known commands? Walk in Community • Invite mature believers to speak truth in love (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Submit ideas and plans to elders or mentors who know Scripture well. • Accept correction quickly; stubbornness clouds discernment. Reject the Works of Darkness Immediately • “Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11) • If something is clearly sinful, no further “discernment” is needed—only obedience. • Replace compromised habits with Christ-honoring alternatives. Practice Regular Self-Examination • End each day asking, “Did my choices reflect light or darkness?” (1 John 1:5-9). • Keep conscience tender; repeated dullness erodes sensitivity (Hebrews 3:13). • Celebrate evidences of grace, giving glory to God. Everyday Scenarios At Work • Choosing integrity over short-cuts pleases the Lord (Proverbs 11:1). Online • Guard eyes and speech; speak only what builds up (Ephesians 4:29). Finances • Give firstfruits, avoid debt traps, steward faithfully (Proverbs 3:9-10). Entertainment • Select media that stirs love for what is pure and honorable (Philippians 4:8). Promises That Empower Discernment • “The one who does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:17) • “If anyone chooses to do His will, he will find out whether My teaching comes from God.” (John 7:17) • “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16) Closing Charge Discerning what is pleasing to the Lord is not a mystical exercise for a select few; it is the birthright of every child of God. By anchoring ourselves in Scripture, relying on the Spirit, and walking in humble community, we can navigate each moment with clarity and confidence, shining as children of light in a dark world. |
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