How can we apply "good judgment and knowledge" in daily decision-making? Psalm 119:66 — The Heart of Discernment “Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe in Your commandments.” What Scripture Means by “Good Judgment and Knowledge” • Good judgment (Hebrew ta‘am) — tasting, testing, discerning what is wholesome and what is harmful • Knowledge (Hebrew da‘at) — knowing facts and also grasping God’s perspective Together, they describe a life that not only knows God’s truth but skillfully applies it. How God Imparts Discernment • Through His Word — “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6) • By the Spirit’s illumination — “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13) • By practice — “Those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil” (Hebrews 5:14) Practical Steps for Daily Decisions 1. Start with surrendered trust – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). 2. Soak your mind in Scripture each morning – Short passages, read aloud, asking, “Lord, teach me judgment and knowledge.” 3. Ask specifically for wisdom – “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously…” (James 1:5). 4. Pause to consult the Word before acting – Keep a verse in view; let it question every option. 5. Invite wise counsel – “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). 6. Weigh motives by love – “Let your love abound… so that you may approve what is excellent” (Philippians 1:9-10). 7. Follow the peace of Christ – “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15). 8. Act in faith, not fear – “Everything that is not of faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). Guardrails for Complex Choices • Is it consistent with clear commands? (Exodus 20; 1 Thessalonians 4:3) • Will it honor Christ’s reputation? (1 Corinthians 10:31) • Does it build others up? (1 Corinthians 8:1) • Can I thank God for it without reservation? (Colossians 3:17) • Would I choose the same if Jesus were visibly beside me? (John 14:23) Ongoing Growth in Discernment • Daily intake of Scripture matures judgment — “All Scripture is God-breathed… so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Obedience deepens insight — light obeyed brings more light (Psalm 119:100). • Gratitude keeps perspective — thanking God for past guidance fuels trust for future choices. Takeaway Good judgment and knowledge flourish when we continually turn to God’s Word, rely on the Spirit, and practice obedience in the everyday moments that shape a life of wise, confident decision-making. |
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