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Mastering the Art of Discernment

Created by SermonCentral on Sep 9, 2023
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Discernment is a critical skill in our current times. Understanding and discerning the times gives us an advantage in navigating life's challenges.

Introduction

Discernment is crucial in the current hour; it is the most critical requirement for our senses. Understanding the times and having discernment will give us an advantage in the fight we are facing.

Scripture Passage

"And he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. There he went into a cave and spent the night. And the word of the Lord came to him: 'What are you doing here, Elijah?' He replied, 'I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.' The Lord said, 'Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.' Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind, there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper."

Main Content

In addition to this passage, let us also consider 1 Chronicles 12:22, which speaks of those who came to join David's army. Among them were the sons of Issachar, who possessed a unique skill: understanding the times and knowing what Israel ought to do. They were not necessarily skilled warriors but had a supernatural ability to discern seasons and make wise decisions accordingly.

The sons of Issachar were indispensable to David's army because they could see beyond the natural and perceive what was happening behind the scenes. Their spiritual discernment gave them an advantage over the enemy, as they were not controlled by what they saw in the natural realm.

It is essential for us, as believers, to have the ability to discern the times we are living in and know how to respond appropriately. Many people react impulsively to the pressures around them, often driven by their emotions and human logic. However, the sons of Issachar teach us the importance of seeking God's perspective and acting in faith, even when it seems illogical to others.

The gift of discernment often leads to actions that appear foolish to those who do not understand. When we operate in faith, our words and actions may seem out of place in the current circumstances. While others may speak of fear, worry, and limitations, those with discernment will speak of revival, miracles, and God's power. They will see opportunities where others see obstacles and will stand firm in their faith despite the prevailing darkness.

The Lord moves in ways that may seem illogical to our natural minds. He calls us to speak and act in ways that go against conventional wisdom. However, these actions are rooted in our intimate relationship with Him. The secret place of hiding with God is a place of solitude, stillness, and rest, but most importantly, it is a place of intimacy.

God longs for us to draw near to Him and enter into His secret chamber. He desires to visit us, cover us, protect us, pour His love upon us, and shower us with blessings. The battle we face today is not merely for physical territory but for the hearts of people. Only those who have walked the pathway of intimacy with God can effectively face the enemy and overcome him.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we must prioritize our relationship with God and seek His presence in the secret place. The devil fears those who dwell in the cave of intimacy with God, for they have encountered His power and carry His love. As believers, we must discern the times we are in and respond accordingly. Let us not miss this season of divine intimacy, for it is in this place that we find strength, guidance, and the ability to stand against the schemes of the enemy. May we be like the sons of Issachar, understanding the times and knowing what to do.

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