The prayer begins by acknowledging the limitations of human wisdom and the need for divine insight. It expresses humility and surrender, recognizing that without divine wisdom, one is prone to error and confusion. The person praying acknowledges their dependence on a higher power to reveal truth and direction.
Further, the prayer seeks discernment, which refers to the ability to distinguish between right and wrong
Discernment is a valuable spiritual gift and a skill that many people seek to develop in their lives. It is the ability to distinguish between right and wrong, truth and falsehood, and to make wise and informed decisions. In the realm of faith and spirituality, the concept of discernment holds a significant place. Many individuals turn to scripture and prayer to seek guidance and develop this vital ability.
The Importance of Discernment
Discernment is often seen as a gift from God, a divine wisdom that enables us to navigate the complexities of life. It helps us make choices that align with our faith and values, avoid harmful influences, and recognize God’s will in our lives. It is especially relevant for Christians, who believe in seeking God’s guidance in all aspects of their lives.
Understanding Scriptural Prayer for Discernment
Scriptural prayer for discernment involves seeking guidance and understanding from God, as described in the Bible. It’s a heartfelt, faith-driven approach to making choices and decisions that are in alignment with one’s beliefs and values.
One of the most well-known prayers for discernment is found in the book of Proverbs, specifically in Proverbs 3:5-6:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
This scripture encourages believers to place their trust in God, relinquish their own understanding, and seek His guidance in all their endeavors. It implies that by doing so, God will lead them on the right path.
How Do I Activate the Spirit of Discernment?
Discernment is not just a passive skill; it’s something that can be developed and activated through a combination of faith, prayer, and intentional effort. Activating the spirit of discernment involves being attuned to God’s voice and guidance in your life.
1. Prayer and Meditation
Regular prayer and meditation are key components of activating the spirit of discernment. Spend time in quiet reflection, seeking God’s wisdom and guidance. Through prayer, you can open a channel of communication with God, allowing Him to speak to your heart and mind.
2. Study Scripture
Studying the Bible is fundamental in the activation of discernment. The Bible is a rich source of divine wisdom and guidance. It provides stories, parables, and teachings that can illuminate the path of discernment. When you immerse yourself in the Word of God, you gain insight into His principles and values.
3. Seek Wise Counsel
Proverbs 15:22 advises, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” Seeking guidance from wise and trusted individuals in your faith community can be a valuable source of discernment. Their experience and wisdom can help you make informed decisions.
4. Develop a Discerning Heart
Practicing discernment is essential to activate the spirit of discernment. As you make decisions, both big and small, seek to do so with a discerning heart. This means evaluating choices in light of your faith, values, and the guidance you receive from God.
Why Do We Pray for Discernment?
Praying for discernment is not only a common practice among religious individuals, but it also serves several important purposes. Discernment is a powerful tool that can guide believers through life’s complexities and challenges.
1. Aligning with God’s Will
One of the primary reasons for praying for discernment is to align one’s life with God’s will. Believers seek to make choices that are in harmony with their faith and values, and they rely on God’s guidance to ensure their decisions are in accordance with His plan for their lives.
2. Avoiding Deception
In a world filled with diverse opinions, beliefs, and ideologies, it’s essential to have the ability to discern truth from deception. Praying for discernment can help believers avoid being led astray by falsehood and deceit.
3. Making Ethical Choices
Praying for discernment helps individuals make ethical choices. It equips them to navigate moral dilemmas, enabling them to act in ways that honor their faith and values.
4. Navigating Life’s Challenges
Life is often fraught with challenges and uncertainties. Praying for discernment provides believers with the guidance and clarity they need to overcome obstacles and make decisions that lead to their spiritual growth and well-being.
What Are the Scriptures for Discernment?
The Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom and guidance for those seeking discernment in their lives. Numerous passages and scriptures offer insight into this vital spiritual gift.
1. Proverbs 2:6
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
This verse highlights that wisdom and understanding come from God. By seeking Him, believers can gain the discernment they need.
2. 1 Corinthians 2:14
“The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.”
This verse emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in discernment. It suggests that those who are attuned to the Spirit can discern God’s wisdom.
3. James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
This verse encourages believers to seek wisdom from God through prayer. When they ask with faith, God will grant them the discernment they need.
4. Hebrews 5:14
“But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.”
This passage underscores that discernment can be developed and refined with practice and maturity. As believers grow in their faith, they become better at distinguishing between right and wrong.
Scripture: Proverbs 2:6
For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
Prayer Points
- FATHER, bestow upon me a discerning spirit so that I will make the right decisions at all times, in JESUS Name.
- FATHER, fill me with YOUR SPIRIT of wisdom so that I may live long and fulfil my destiny, in JESUS Name.
- FATHER endue me with the spirit of discernment, in JESUS Name.
- FATHER, cast away the spirit of confusion from my life and replace it with the spirit of wisdom and discernment in JESUS Name.
- I shall no longer be spiritually blind, in JESUS Name.
- Every evil friend in my life shall be exposed by the spirit of discernment in my life in JESUS Name.
- By the Spirit of GOD I shall always know what to do at the right time in the Name of JESUS
- LORD guide my steps not to seek counsel from the ungodly. Let YOUR HOLY SPIRIT counsel and empower me to make the right decisions in JESUS Name.
- FATHER, open my spiritual eyes to see what my physical eyes cannot see, in JESUS Name.
- FATHER, open my eyes to perceive evil before it comes near me, in JESUS Name.
- I declare the spirit of discernment at work in my life in JESUS Name.
- FATHER, lead me to open doors of opportunity that YOU have prepared for me in JESUS Name .
- LORD , bless me with the faith that gives me the confidence to face difficulties unfazed, knowing that Your plans are always perfect in JESUS Name.
- FATHER, help me make the right decisions that allow me to experience YOUR power and love in my life in JESUS Name.
- LORD, teach me, that I may walk in YOUR wisdom.
- FATHER, guide my steps so that I do not end up in the wrong path, and direct my thoughts so that I do not make the wrong choices in JESUS Name.
In conclusion, scriptural prayer for discernment is a powerful tool for those seeking guidance in their lives. It involves aligning with God’s will, avoiding deception, making ethical choices, and navigating life’s challenges. By studying and meditating on relevant scriptures, seeking wise counsel, and developing a discerning heart, individuals can activate the spirit of discernment in their journey of faith. The Bible provides a wealth of wisdom and guidance to aid believers in their pursuit of discernment, offering insight and direction in their quest to make wise and faith-driven decisions.
