In what ways can we practice discernment in our current cultural context? Setting the Scriptural Foundation “ ‘But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil.’ ” (Hebrews 5:14) Training the Senses: What It Means • “Constant use” speaks of a lifestyle—daily, deliberate engagement with God’s Word (Psalm 119:105). • “Trained” translates a word related to athletic practice; discernment grows through repeated, intentional obedience (James 1:22). • “Distinguish good from evil” assumes objective standards defined by Scripture, not shifting cultural opinions (John 17:17). Practical Ways to Exercise Discernment Today • Saturate your mind with Scripture before screens shape your worldview (Deuteronomy 6:6-9). • Pray for the Spirit’s illumination; He guides into all truth (John 16:13). • Compare every message—news, entertainment, social media—to the text of Scripture; keep an open Bible handy when consuming content. • Memorize key passages that address hot-button issues (e.g., Genesis 1-2 for human identity, Matthew 19:4-6 for marriage, Proverbs 6:16-19 for what God hates). • Seek counsel from mature believers; wisdom is found in a multitude of godly advisers (Proverbs 11:14). • Practice “test everything; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Watch for fruit: does this teaching or trend promote righteousness, love, and obedience to Christ? (Matthew 7:16-20). • Keep short accounts with God—confess sin quickly so it does not cloud your judgment (1 John 1:9). Common Cultural Arenas Requiring Discernment • Media narratives that redefine morality—filter them through Isaiah 5:20. • Online influencers or “experts” who claim spiritual authority—apply 1 John 4:1. • Educational curricula that exclude God—measure against Colossians 2:8. • Entertainment that normalizes impurity—remember Ephesians 5:3-12. • Social justice movements—embrace genuine biblical justice (Micah 6:8) while rejecting ideologies contrary to the gospel (Galatians 1:6-9). • Financial or career choices—seek first God’s kingdom (Matthew 6:33). Guardrails Against Deception • Maintain a settled conviction that Scripture is infallible and sufficient (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Cultivate a humble, teachable spirit; pride blinds (Proverbs 16:18). • Stay connected to a Bible-preaching local church; isolation invites error (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Remember Satan masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14); deception often looks attractive. The Fruit of Mature Discernment • Purity of heart and clarity of mind (Philippians 1:9-10). • Steadfastness amid cultural confusion (Ephesians 4:14). • A credible witness that shines in darkness (Philippians 2:15-16). • Deeper intimacy with Christ, the embodiment of truth (John 14:6). |
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