Tag: discernment

March 21, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Calling to Stand Apart

Opening Verse

“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.”
— 2 Corinthians 6:17 (KJV)

Introduction

When God calls you apart, it isn’t always to a place of ease—but it is always a place of purpose. You may feel misunderstood, outnumbered, or even unheard. But make no mistake: being set apart is not rejection—it’s preparation.

Devotional Story

Elijah worked a quiet job fixing up old boats. Most days, he was alone with his tools, his thoughts, and his Bible. Friends didn’t visit like they used to. His phone rarely rang anymore. It seemed like the world had gone silent.

One afternoon, while sanding the hull of a boat, a heavy question hit him: “Why am I even here?” The loneliness felt thick. Just then, a verse stirred in his heart: “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” He paused his work. God was speaking.

Later that week, a stranger knocked on the workshop door. It was a young man with tired eyes and a broken spirit. “I was walking by… felt like I had to come in,” he said.

They talked. Hours passed. Tears were shed. The young man didn’t know Jesus, but that day, he met Him—because someone had been willing to stay in a quiet place and be available.

What This Means

God may call you away from the noise—not to leave you in isolation, but to sharpen your focus. When the world is screaming, silence can become a sanctuary. In the stillness, He reveals your true assignment.

And sometimes, it’s not the masses you’re sent to—it’s the one.

You are not forgotten. You are not wasting time. You are in training. You are being forged to intercede, to lead, and to rescue. There is a battle for souls—and it starts with focus. Distractions are not harmless; they are calculated. Recognize them. Rebuke them. Keep your eyes on the Lord.

Think About This

Are you in a season where you feel hidden or unheard? Could it be God has called you apart to prepare you?

Have you been mistaking divine preparation for abandonment?

Who is waiting for you to stay faithful—so that they might find the Light through your obedience?

Prayer

Father, teach me to treasure the quiet seasons. Help me to recognize distractions and stay locked in on Your voice. Make me bold in intercession. Give me discernment in battle. And let me never forget that You call apart those You plan to send into the fire—not to be burned, but to lead others out. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And the Lord said unto him, Go, return on thy way… yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal.” — 1 Kings 19:15,18 (KJV)

March 17, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Investing Wisely in the Kingdom

Opening Verse

“His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”
— Matthew 25:21 (KJV)

Introduction

The Parable of the Talents teaches us about responsibility, faithfulness, and wise investment. Jesus spoke about a master who entrusted his servants with different amounts of money, expecting them to multiply it. This parable is not just about financial stewardship—it is about spiritual investments, our time, our gifts, and even our giving. But should we invest in everyone? What happens when we pour into someone who refuses to change?

Devotional Story

A man named Elijah had a heart for giving. Anytime someone was in need, he opened his wallet or his home. He believed he was fulfilling God’s will. But over time, he began to notice something. Certain people always came back asking for more, yet they never changed. They never sought to grow, never tried to use what they were given wisely.

One day, an old friend, Thomas, reached out for help. Thomas had received Elijah’s support before but had squandered it. Elijah hesitated. Was he being judgmental? Wasn’t he supposed to give freely?

That night, Elijah prayed. God led him to Matthew 25—the Parable of the Talents. He saw how the master rewarded those who used what they had been given wisely but took away from the one who did nothing. He realized that giving isn’t just about handing things out—it’s about investing wisely.

The next day, Elijah sat with Thomas. Instead of giving him money, he offered wisdom. “I’ll help you, but you need to show me how you’ll use it this time.” Thomas scoffed and walked away, unwilling to change. Elijah felt a deep peace. He had done what was right.

What This Means

Not everyone is ready to receive what God has for them. The Bible tells us not to “cast your pearls before swine” (Matthew 7:6). This means we must be discerning with our spiritual and material investments. If someone is unwilling to change, we must ask: Are we helping them, or just enabling them?

Jesus invested deeply in His disciples, but He did not chase after those who hardened their hearts. God calls us to give, but He also calls us to be wise stewards.

Think About This

  • Are you investing in people who are receptive to change?
  • Have you prayed for discernment before giving?
  • Are you using your own talents wisely, or are you burying them?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, give me wisdom in how I give and invest in others. Help me to be generous but also discerning. Show me where to sow, and help me recognize when to step back. Let my giving bring true growth and not just temporary relief. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.”
— Matthew 7:6 (KJV)

March 14, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Kicking a Hornet’s Nest

Opening Verse

“He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.”
— Proverbs 11:29 (KJV)

Introduction

Some actions stir up trouble far beyond what we expect. Much like kicking a hornet’s nest, meddling with things that should be left alone can bring unnecessary pain and chaos. Many times, we ignore warnings from God and push forward, thinking we are in control—only to find ourselves surrounded by the consequences of our own recklessness.

Devotional Story

A man walked through the woods on a quiet afternoon, enjoying the peace around him. He noticed a large hornet’s nest hanging from a tree. Curiosity got the best of him, and he picked up a rock. Without much thought, he threw it hard at the nest.

At first, nothing happened. Then, a faint buzzing grew louder. Within seconds, a swarm of angry hornets burst from the nest, heading straight for him. He ran, flailing his arms, but it was too late. The stings came one after another, leaving him in agony. What was once a peaceful walk turned into a painful lesson in foolishness.

Much like this man, many people ignore God’s warnings in life. They meddle in sin, thinking they can handle the consequences. They stir up strife in their homes, involve themselves in gossip, or entertain sinful habits—only to reap a whirlwind of destruction. The Bible warns that those who “trouble their own house” will inherit the wind. In other words, their actions will lead to emptiness, regret, and pain.

What This Means

God gives us wisdom to avoid unnecessary pain. He warns us through His Word, through godly counsel, and even through the quiet nudging of the Holy Spirit. Yet, some still choose to play with sin, believing they are immune to its consequences. But sin is like a nest of hornets—you might think you can get away with disturbing it, but eventually, you will get stung.

We must be wise and discerning, avoiding situations that invite trouble into our lives. Instead of stirring up strife, we should seek peace. Instead of entertaining sin, we should pursue righteousness.

Think About This

  • Are there areas in your life where you are ignoring God’s warnings?
  • Have you been stirring up trouble in your home, workplace, or relationships?
  • What steps can you take to walk in wisdom and avoid unnecessary pain?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, give me wisdom to avoid the traps of foolishness and sin. Help me to recognize when I am stirring up trouble in my life and give me the strength to walk away from temptation. Teach me to be a peacemaker and not a troublemaker. Let me seek righteousness and wisdom in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”
— Galatians 6:7 (KJV)

February 24, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Danger of Itching Ears

Opening Verse

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;”
2 Timothy 4:3 (KJV)

Introduction

We live in a time where people don’t want to hear the truth of God’s Word. They seek messages that make them feel good, rather than those that call for repentance. Instead of enduring sound doctrine, they find teachers who say what they want to hear, not what they need to hear. The Bible warns us about this danger, and we must be on guard against it.

Devotional Story

A man named Kevin was raised in a strong Christian home. He grew up hearing the Word of God, but as he got older, he didn’t like sermons about sin, repentance, or holiness. He wanted a version of Christianity that let him live how he wanted while still feeling “blessed.”

One day, he found a preacher online who never talked about judgment, never called people to repentance, and always promised prosperity. Kevin loved listening to him. He felt good, motivated, and encouraged—but deep down, he knew something was missing. The messages never convicted him, never challenged him, and never pointed him toward the cross.

One night, Kevin had a dream. In it, he was in a grand, beautiful church filled with thousands of people. The preacher stood on stage, smiling and speaking words of comfort, but behind him was a door leading to darkness. The congregation clapped and cheered, unaware that they were being led away from the truth. Kevin tried to warn them, but no one listened. He woke up in a cold sweat, realizing God was showing him that he had been deceived. He repented and returned to the Word of God, seeking sound doctrine instead of empty words.

What This Means

The world is full of false teachers who only preach what people want to hear. But the true gospel is not about making us feel comfortable in sin—it is about leading us to repentance and eternal life. We must be careful not to fall into the trap of “itching ears,” seeking only messages that please our flesh while ignoring God’s truth.

Think About This

  • Do you seek teachers who preach what you want to hear or what you need to hear?
  • Are you willing to endure sound doctrine, even when it challenges you?
  • Have you asked God to give you discernment to recognize false teachings?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to love Your truth above all else. Give me discernment to recognize false teachings and the courage to stand on Your Word. Let me not seek what pleases my flesh but what leads me closer to You. Keep my heart from deception and fill me with the wisdom of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
Psalm 119:105 (KJV)

February 12, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Deliverance from the Way of Evil

Opening Verse

“To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things;” – Proverbs 2:12 (KJV)

Introduction

The world is filled with voices trying to lead us astray—false teachings, sinful temptations, and deceitful influences. But God, in His wisdom, provides us with discernment and understanding to guard us from these dangers. Proverbs 2:12 reminds us that God’s wisdom delivers us from evil paths and keeps us safe from those who twist the truth.

Devotional Story

A young man once started a new job where everything seemed promising—good pay, friendly coworkers, and a bright future ahead. But soon, he noticed something troubling. His colleagues encouraged him to cut corners, lie to customers, and manipulate numbers for financial gain. At first, he hesitated, but the pressure was strong.

One day, an older employee quietly pulled him aside. “Listen,” he said, “I’ve been here long enough to see where this road leads. It starts with small compromises, but soon, you won’t recognize yourself. If you want real success, seek wisdom and integrity—don’t walk with those who twist the truth.”

Convicted, the young man turned to God in prayer and asked for guidance. He made the difficult choice to stand firm in righteousness, even when it cost him friendships at work. Over time, God honored his obedience, and he was promoted to a leadership role where he could set a godly example.

What This Means

The devil is cunning, and he often uses deception to lure us away from God’s path. But wisdom from God acts as our shield, protecting us from corrupt influences. When we walk in His understanding, we recognize the dangers before us and avoid them.

Think About This

  • Are there any areas in your life where you’re tempted to compromise your integrity?
  • Do you seek God’s wisdom before making important decisions?
  • How can you surround yourself with godly influences that help you stay on the right path?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your wisdom that delivers us from evil. Help me to discern truth from lies and stand firm in righteousness. Protect me from those who twist Your Word and lead others astray. May I always seek Your counsel and walk in integrity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.” – Proverbs 4:14 (KJV)

January 4, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Children of Issachar: Understanding the Times

Opening Verse

“And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment.”
1 Chronicles 12:32 (KJV)

Introduction

The Bible highlights the sons of Issachar as individuals gifted with discernment and wisdom. They possessed a deep understanding of the times and seasons and knew what steps needed to be taken. This insight wasn’t their own; it was God-given, and it positioned them to guide their nation according to His will.

Insight from the Word

Understanding the times is not merely about observing current events but discerning God’s will within them. The children of Issachar had a spiritual sensitivity that aligned their actions with divine purposes. In a world filled with noise, this kind of discernment requires a heart tuned to God’s Word and a mind renewed by His Spirit.

Discernment comes from seeking God diligently through prayer and the study of His Word. It is cultivated in moments of stillness before Him, where His voice can be heard clearly. Like the sons of Issachar, we are called to be spiritually awake, to recognize the seasons we are in, and to act boldly according to His leading.

What This Means

To live as children of Issachar today means to:

  1. Seek God’s wisdom daily.
    “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” (James 1:5, KJV)
  2. Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
    “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” (Romans 8:14, KJV)
  3. Act with faith and courage in response to God’s direction.
    “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6, KJV)

Think About This

  • Are you actively seeking to understand God’s will in the current times?
  • How often do you pause to listen for God’s direction before making decisions?
  • What steps can you take to align your life with His purposes?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the example of the sons of Issachar, who discerned Your purposes and guided their nation in wisdom. Grant me understanding and insight to navigate the times I live in. Help me to seek Your will above all else and to act in faith when You call. Teach me to be sensitive to Your Spirit and to live boldly for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.”
Psalm 111:10 (KJV)

October 7, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Hidden Truth Revealed

Opening Verse

“For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.” (Luke 8:17, KJV)

Introduction

Life often presents situations that seem stable and secure. However, beneath the surface, issues may be festering, hidden from plain sight. It’s easy to overlook these subtle signs, but God calls us to be discerning and seek the truth. We are reminded that while some things may be concealed, nothing remains hidden forever. In time, the truth always comes to light.

Devotional Story

A woman named Lisa had been working at a company for many years. On the outside, everything seemed perfect—her job was stable, and her coworkers appeared friendly. But Lisa began to feel a deep unrest in her spirit. Something was off, but she couldn’t quite figure out what it was. Instead of ignoring this inner prompting, she started to pray for wisdom and clarity.

As time went on, Lisa discovered that some of her colleagues were involved in unethical practices that were being hidden from the leadership team. It became clear that what seemed like a secure environment was actually quite fragile. Trusting God’s guidance, Lisa approached the situation carefully and brought the truth to light. While this caused an initial disruption, it led to healing and restoration in the workplace.

What This Means

We often go through life trusting that things are fine, only to discover later that there are hidden issues. God calls us to seek His wisdom in these moments. When we face situations that seem uncertain or uneasy, it’s crucial to trust that He will reveal the truth in His time. Protect what matters most, whether it be relationships, your integrity, or your faith. Remember, God brings all things to light, and He works all things for good.

Think About This

Are there situations in your life that seem stable, but deep down you feel unsettled? Are you willing to ask God for discernment, trusting Him to reveal hidden truths in His perfect time?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to discern the things that are hidden beneath the surface. Give me the wisdom to seek Your truth and the courage to act on what You reveal. Help me protect the things You have given me and trust that, in time, You will bring all things to light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7, KJV)

July 1, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Crown of Knowledge

Opening Verse

“The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.” – Proverbs 14:18, KJV

 

Introduction

The book of Proverbs gives us wisdom for everyday life. Proverbs 14:18 shows the difference between those who blindly trust in man and those who seek God’s knowledge.

 

Devotional Story

There was a man named Peter who lived in a small village. Peter was kind-hearted but often too trusting, believing everything he heard without questioning. He trusted in man’s words more than seeking God’s guidance. This led him into many troubles and heartaches.

 

One day, Peter met John, a wise and prudent man known for his reliance on God’s wisdom. Peter admired John and asked for his help. John told Peter to stop trusting in man and start seeking God in everything. He taught Peter how to read the Bible and pray for God’s guidance.

 

Peter began to change. He stopped trusting every word of man and started bringing everything to God in prayer. He found wisdom in the Scriptures and started making better decisions. His life transformed, and he wore the crown of knowledge, just as Proverbs 14:18 says.

 

What This Means

This verse shows us the danger of blindly trusting in man and ignoring God. The simple, who trust in man’s wisdom, inherit folly and disaster. But those who seek God’s wisdom and guidance are crowned with knowledge. This crown is a source of honor and protection in life.

 

Think About This

Are you trusting in man’s words more than God’s wisdom? Are you bringing your decisions to God in prayer? Reflect on your trust and make a change today. Run to Jesus, cry out for His wisdom, and let Him transform your life.

 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, forgive us for trusting in man’s wisdom over Yours. Help us to seek Your guidance in all things. Give us the wisdom to make right decisions and avoid folly. Change our hearts, Lord, and crown us with Your knowledge. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

Closing Verse

“For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.”  – Proverbs 2:6, KJV

June 10, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Separate from Sin

Opening Verse

 

“Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33 KJV

 

Introduction

As followers of Christ, we are called to live holy and separate lives. The world around us is filled with temptations and influences that can lead us astray. It’s crucial to guard our hearts and minds against the lure of sin, even if it means distancing ourselves from certain people or activities.

 

Devotional Story

There was a young man named Daniel who loved the Lord deeply. He enjoyed spending time with friends but began to notice that some of them often engaged in gossip, crude jokes, and other behaviors that went against his beliefs. Daniel felt uncomfortable but didn’t want to seem judgmental or lose their friendship. Over time, he found himself laughing at jokes he once found offensive and participating in conversations that left him feeling guilty.

 

One day, during his morning devotion, Daniel read 1 Corinthians 15:33 and felt convicted. He realized that by entertaining himself with the sins of others, he was slowly drifting away from his commitment to Christ. Daniel decided to make a change. He lovingly distanced himself from those influences and sought out friendships that encouraged his faith.

 

What This Means

This story illustrates the subtle but dangerous influence that sinful behavior can have on our lives. By associating with those who engage in sin or finding amusement in their actions, we risk dulling our sensitivity to what is right and wrong. The Bible warns us to be cautious about the company we keep because it can either build us up or tear us down.

 

Think About This

– Are there people or activities in your life that lead you away from God?

– How can you gently distance yourself from these influences while still showing Christ’s love?

– What steps can you take to surround yourself with godly influences?

 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to recognize the influences in my life that lead me away from You. Give me the strength to distance myself from sinful behaviors and to seek out relationships that draw me closer to You. Help me to be a light in the darkness, sharing Your love without compromising my faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

Closing Verse

 

“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.” – Psalm 1:1 KJV

June 8, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Eyes to See the Fakes

Opening Verse

“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.”- 2 Corinthians 11:13 (KJV)

 

Introduction

In our journey of faith, we must be vigilant. The devil and the world are experts in deception, offering fake counterfeits that seem genuine but lead us astray. These distractions can divert us from God’s true plan and purpose for our lives. Therefore, it is crucial to pray for discernment and wisdom to recognize these falsehoods.

Devotional Story

A man named Peter was deeply committed to his walk with Christ. One day, he was presented with a job offer that promised a significant increase in salary and prestige. On the surface, it appeared to be a blessing. However, the job required Peter to compromise his values and spend less time with his family and in ministry.

As Peter prayed for guidance, he felt a nagging sense of unease. He sought counsel from trusted Christian friends and continued to pray for clarity. Finally, he realized that the offer, although attractive, was a counterfeit. It was a distraction meant to pull him away from his true calling. Peter declined the job and soon found another opportunity that aligned perfectly with his faith and allowed him to grow in his relationship with God.

What This Means

Peter’s story reminds us that not every opportunity or situation that looks good is from God. The devil often uses attractive counterfeits to lure us away from God’s will. By seeking God’s guidance and praying for discernment, we can develop the ability to recognize these deceptions and stay on the right path.

Think About This

– Are there areas in your life where you might be accepting counterfeits?
– How can you develop a stronger sense of discernment to recognize what is truly from God?
– What steps can you take to ensure that your decisions align with God’s plan?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I pray for Your wisdom and discernment in my life. Help me to see through the deceptions of the enemy and the world. Give me eyes to recognize the counterfeits that are meant to distract and derail me from Your path. Strengthen my heart to choose Your truth above all else. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.”

-2 Corinthians 11:14 (KJV)