A Call To Discern
“In a world where values shift and blend,
Stand firm in Truth, don’t twist or bend.”
Isaiah’s words emphasize the timeless truth of the human tendency to distort truth and morality. Today, we face conflicting messages and a culture that celebrates what is contrary to God’s standards. Discipline remains a guiding light, allowing us to distinguish between God’s wisdom and worldly values’ deceptive darkness.
In a world of information overload and shifting values, the need for discernment is stronger than ever. Isaiah 5:20 highlights moral confusion, as it reflects the complexities of truth and moral lines. The call for discernment is more urgent in a world where truth is often obscured and moral lines are blurred: “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”
Like miners seeking precious gems, we are urged to seek wisdom and understanding with fervor. Discernment is a gift from God, and by diligently seeking His wisdom, we can navigate the complexities of the world with clarity.
Proverbs 2:3: “Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.”
The apostle Paul’s prayer for the Philippians encapsulates the essence of discernment. It’s about having a heart abounding in love and knowledge, allowing us to distinguish what is excellent and to live without stumbling. Philippians 1:9–10: “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ.”
Discernment is a gift from God that develops over time through the Holy Spirit. By immersing ourselves in God’s Word and exercising our spiritual senses, we grow in our ability to discern between good and evil. Hebrews 5:14: “But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. “
Brethren, Isaiah 5:20 warns against distorting truth, highlighting the importance of discerning truth and distinguishing good from evil, despite societal norm shifts. Romans 12:9 says “Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good”, while justifying the wicked and condemning the just are “abominable to the LORD” Proverbs 17:15.
In a world where the lines between right and wrong can be blurred, Jesus Christ is our source of unwavering discernment. He is the Word that was made flesh (John 1:14) and the Light of the World (John 8:12). Christ’s teachings and example provide the ultimate model of discernment, empowering us to distinguish good from evil.
