Developing Discernment

Discernment is not suspicion dressed as wisdom, nor confidence in one’s own impressions. It is a spiritual judgment formed by the Word of God, strengthened by holy practice, and exercised in humble dependence upon the Spirit. The modern Nazarite must learn not merely to refuse what is plainly evil, but to recognise what is true, wholesome, and fitting for a life set apart unto God.

Try All Things by the Word

“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” Read Gill on 1 John 4:1.

Try - dokimazete (δοκιμάζετε) - means to test and approve after examination. A consecrated believer does not receive every claim, trend, teacher, or inward impression without trial. Gill calls the Word of God the standard by which doctrine is to be tested. Scripture, not excitement or popularity, must judge every message.

“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.” Read Gill on Hebrews 5:14.

Discernment grows through use. Discern - diakrisein (διακρίνειν) - is the work of distinguishing. The habits of prayer, Scripture, obedience, counsel, and repentance train the spiritual senses. The Nazarite principle is therefore not isolation for its own sake; it is availability to God, so that the mind may be less ruled by appetite and more ready to recognise His truth.

“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” Read Gill on 1 Thessalonians 5:21.

Test carefully, keep what is good, and release what cannot bear the light of Scripture. Such discipline protects the heart from error without making it hard. It keeps the modern Nazarite watchful, teachable, and firmly attached to Christ.