The Strategic Power of Discernment

One bad decision can shake your confidence. You thought you heard God about a relationship, a hire, a partnership, or an opportunity, but the outcome wasn’t what you expected. Now you find yourself second-guessing what you sense.

But one missed decision doesn’t mean you’re bad at discernment.

Hebrews tells us that discernment develops “by reason of use.” In other words, we grow as we practice. We listen, act, learn, and keep going.

If you’re growing in discernment right now:

• Don’t let one miss define you. Look back at the times you sensed correctly, too.
• Use discernment alongside due diligence. Check the facts, ask good questions, and pay attention to what you sense from God.
• Don’t confuse discernment with suspicion. A hesitation about partnering with someone doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with them.
• Watch your biases. Past hurt and experiences can influence what you sense, so invite wise counsel when needed.

You don’t always need to understand why you feel a hesitation before you respond to it. God sees what you can’t see, and growing in discernment means learning to trust His heart while continuing to practice, learn, and mature.

Have a decision in front of you right now? Take this conversation a little further with this week’s podcast and blog, and discover practical ways to grow in discernment as you partner with God.