What practical steps help us "discern what is pleasing" to God? Exploring Ephesians 5:10 “and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:10) Paul tucks this simple command into a passage that contrasts darkness with light (vv. 8-11). Because we are now “light in the Lord,” we must actively learn, test, and choose whatever delights Him. Why Discernment Matters • Darkness surrounds us, but we are called to “walk as children of light” (v. 8). • Our new identity demands new instincts; discernment trains those instincts. • Discernment guards us from deception and leads us into joyful obedience. Practical Steps for Discerning What Pleases God • Soak in Scripture – “All Scripture is God-breathed… so that the man of God may be complete” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). – Regular, thoughtful reading renews the mind (Romans 12:2) and exposes counterfeit ideas. • Ask for Wisdom – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God” (James 1:5). – Paul prays “that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will” (Colossians 1:9-10); make that prayer your own. • Walk in the Light You Already Have – “But if we walk in the light… the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us” (1 John 1:7). – Obeying known truth sharpens spiritual perception for future choices (John 7:17). • Measure by the Fruit of the Spirit – “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22-23). – A decision that throttles this fruit is unlikely to please God. • Test Everything – “Test all things. Hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). – Evaluate motives, methods, and outcomes under the spotlight of Scripture. • Keep a Clean Conscience – “The goal of our instruction is love… and a good conscience” (1 Timothy 1:5). – Quickly confess sin (1 John 1:9). A dull conscience blurs discernment. • Seek Godly Counsel – “Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14). – Mature believers provide perspective and accountability (Hebrews 13:7). • Consider God’s Glory First – “Whether you eat or drink… do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). – If God’s honor is the primary aim, the path usually becomes clear. • Cultivate Gratitude – “Give thanks in every circumstance” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). – Thankfulness re-orients the heart toward God’s goodness, protecting from selfish choices. Putting It Into Daily Practice 1. Begin each morning with a short passage—read, meditate, and note one actionable truth. 2. Pray through upcoming decisions, large or small, specifically asking, “Lord, show me what pleases You.” 3. Throughout the day, pause to weigh attitudes and words against the fruit of the Spirit. 4. In questionable moments, call or text a trusted believer for perspective. 5. End the day with a brief self-examination, confessing sin and thanking God for His guidance. Encouraging Reminder “for it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). The One who calls us to discernment also empowers it. As we practice these steps, we will increasingly recognize and choose whatever brings Him delight. |
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