The spiritual gift of discernment shows up twice in the Bible and with very little for a working definition. This has left a lot of room for people to interpret and put their own experiences into what this gift could be.

It’s hard to think sensibly of ourselves. We often look at our gifts one of two ways: Either with too much pride and entitlement or with a degrading view and lack of self-esteem. How do we learn to look at our gifts in a way that benefits the church and keeps us humble?

Perhaps you’re standing at a crossroad too. You’re unsure how to move forward. As a believer, you want to make a decision that is pleasing to God and will glorify him. You’ve tried searching for feelings of peace and listening for God’s voice, but you’re still confused. What if the decision process doesn’t have to be so mystical? What if a God-glorifying decision is plain and simple?

Growing up, I always craved the intimate relationship I saw that others had with God. But it seemed like this intimate relationship was always out of reach. What I didn’t realize is that in Christ, God has provided the way for me to have an intimate relationship with him—one of speaking and listening, of learning and growing in love.

What does it meant to be filled with the Holy Spirit? The Holy Spirit not only gives us the ability to understand Scripture, but He is also the One who enables us to obey it.

When we study the Bible, we may be tempted to take pride in our knowledge, practice, or ability. But if we only had our own talent to get us through Scripture, it would not be enough. The Holy Spirit not only helps us understand the Bible, but also convicts our hearts of sin and directly applies the Word to our hearts.