What can we learn about discernment from the watchman's observation in this verse? Setting the Scene 2 Samuel 18:27: “The watchman said, ‘It appears to me that the first man runs like Ahimaaz son of Zadok.’ ‘He is a good man,’ the king replied. ‘He comes with good news.’” What the Watchman Noticed • Elevated vantage point gave a clear, unhindered view • Careful attention to detail—he recognized a man’s gait from afar • Immediate identification: “runs like Ahimaaz” • Assessment of character and message based on known reputation—“He is a good man” Key Lessons in Discernment • Discernment begins with watchfulness—staying spiritually alert rather than passive • Familiarity with the genuine enables swift recognition; knowing Ahimaaz’s stride parallels knowing sound doctrine • Character counts: the king linked the runner’s moral standing to the reliability of his news • Discernment distinguishes quickly yet accurately—no confusion between messengers or messages • Observation was reported humbly and promptly, underscoring accountability in sharing what is seen Developing Spiritual Sharpness Today • Cultivate a “high tower” habit—daily Scripture reading places life under God’s broad view • Train the senses through practice (Hebrews 5:14) by comparing every teaching with the Word • Weigh messages by the messenger’s fruit (Matthew 7:16) and the content’s faithfulness to truth • Guard the heart (Proverbs 4:23) so perception is not clouded by sin or prejudice • Maintain readiness; the true watchman warns in season and out (Ezekiel 33:6) Supporting Scriptures on Discernment • Hebrews 5:14: “But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil.” • Philippians 1:9–10: “That your love may abound more and more in knowledge and every kind of discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:21–22: “but test all things. Hold fast to what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” • Matthew 7:16: “By their fruit you will recognize them.” Practical Takeaways • Stay on the wall—keep a consistent lookout through Scripture and prayer • Know the genuine deeply; it sharpens instantaneous recognition of error • Evaluate both message and messenger; integrity supports credibility • Speak up when insight is given—discernment serves the body when shared • Aim for maturity; continual practice refines spiritual eyesight and safeguards the community |
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