Understanding Discernment: Is It Me or God?

My life is no different than others’; we all are constantly making decisions and praying that we make the right ones. I am in a season of many changes and many decisions right now. It can often feel scary when we are faced with changes because we want to do what is right in the Lord’s eyes.

Oftentimes, this comes with prayer and seeking the Lord’s will. But how can we know if the guidance we are feeling is from the Lord or from us?

Here are two things that I’ve learned in regard to seeking the Lord’s will and knowing what is discernment and what is my own fleshly heart.

1. God’s Voice Never Contradicts God’s Word

First and foremost, God’s voice will never contradict His Word. If you’re seeking the Lord and feel He is leading you in a direction that contradicts what the Bible says, then you can instantly discern that it is your flesh talking.

The best way to know if you’re walking in God’s will is to test it against His Word. Read your Bible, seek answers within it, and pray for discernment.

2. God’s Guidance Produces Peace, Not Pressure

If you are in a situation and praying for God to lead you, know that the direction He sends you in will bring peace. If you are walking in a direction and feeling anxiety, pressure, or fear, you may want to rethink your decision.

That doesn’t mean we will never feel anxious or fearful when we are walking in God’s will. Remember Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. When these young men refused to bow before the idol that King Nebuchadnezzar built, they knew the punishment would be death by fire. But what did they say?

“If you throw us into the hot furnace, the God we serve can save us. And if He wants to, He can save us from your power. But even if God does not save us, we want you to know, King, that we refuse to serve your gods. We will not worship the gold idol you have set up.”

Daniel 3:17-18

I’m sure these three young men were very scared, but to speak with that kind of authority means that their spirits were at peace because they knew they were doing the right thing. Sometimes, even when we are scared, walking in God’s will produces a peace that passes all understanding.

I’m still learning how to discern God’s will in my own life, but these are two things that have helped! I encourage you to continue seeking the Lord through prayer, Scripture, and godly counsel.

The best part is that even if we find ourselves on a path that is not God’s will, He is faithful and loving enough to let us course-correct!

I’m praying for the decisions you are making in your life right now and praying for godly discernment!