The gift of discerning of spirits is a powerful and essential gift in the Christian faith. It is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to distinguish between good and evil spirits, recognize the work of God, and detect deception from the enemy.
In a world where spiritual influences affect our daily lives, understanding and using the gift of discernment is crucial for making wise decisions, protecting oneself from spiritual deception, and growing in faith. This topic will explore what discerning of spirits means, its biblical foundation, and how believers can develop this gift.
What Is the Gift of Discerning of Spirits?
The gift of discerning of spirits is a supernatural ability given by the Holy Spirit that allows a person to recognize the spiritual origin of an action, thought, or presence. It helps believers identify whether something comes from:
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The Holy Spirit (from God)
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Human spirit (from personal emotions or thoughts)
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Demonic spirits (from the enemy)
This gift is not based on human intuition but on divine revelation. It is meant to protect the church, guide believers, and help in spiritual warfare.
Biblical Basis for the Gift of Discernment
The Bible speaks clearly about the importance of spiritual discernment. One of the key verses that mention this gift is:
“To another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.” (1 Corinthians 12:10, NKJV)
This passage shows that discerning of spirits is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, given to believers to strengthen the body of Christ.
Additionally, in 1 John 4:1, believers are instructed to test the spirits:
“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
This verse highlights the need for discernment, as not all spirits or teachings come from God.
Why Is the Gift of Discerning of Spirits Important?
The gift of discerning of spirits serves several essential purposes in the Christian life:
1. Identifying False Prophets and Teachings
Jesus warned about false prophets who would try to deceive believers:
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.” (Matthew 7:15)
With this gift, believers can recognize false teachings, distinguish between truth and deception, and avoid spiritual danger.
2. Protecting the Church from Spiritual Attacks
The enemy often tries to infiltrate the church through deception. The gift of discernment helps leaders and believers detect demonic influences that may cause division, confusion, or false doctrines.
3. Recognizing the Work of the Holy Spirit
Not every supernatural manifestation is from God. The ability to discern spirits allows believers to confirm whether a spiritual experience is truly from the Holy Spirit or from another source.
4. Strengthening Spiritual Warfare
Spiritual battles are real, and the Bible warns that our struggle is not against flesh and blood:
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12)
Having the gift of discerning of spirits allows believers to identify demonic influences, resist the enemy, and pray effectively.
Signs That You Have the Gift of Discernment
How do you know if you have the gift of discerning of spirits? Here are some signs:
1. You Can Sense Spiritual Atmospheres
People with this gift often feel a shift in spiritual presence when entering a place. They can sense whether a place or person is influenced by God’s presence or something unholy.
2. You Quickly Recognize Deception
You may notice that you can detect false teachings, manipulation, or hidden motives even when others do not see them.
3. You Have Spiritual Sensitivity to People’s True Nature
Those with this gift often sense whether a person’s intentions are pure or deceptive, even before anything is revealed.
4. You Experience a Strong Burden to Pray Against Evil
Believers with this gift may feel an intense need to pray against spiritual attacks, demonic influences, or deception in their church or community.
How to Develop the Gift of Discerning of Spirits
If you believe you have the gift of discernment, here are ways to strengthen it:
1. Stay Rooted in the Word of God
The Bible is the foundation of truth. To develop discernment, believers must study and meditate on Scripture regularly. The more you know the Word of God, the easier it is to recognize what is from God and what is not.
2. Pray for Spiritual Wisdom
James 1:5 says:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
Ask God for wisdom and clarity in spiritual discernment. Prayer strengthens your connection with the Holy Spirit, allowing you to discern spirits more effectively.
3. Test Every Spirit
1 John 4:1 instructs believers to test spirits before accepting teachings or supernatural experiences. Ask:
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Does this align with God’s Word?
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Does this bring glory to Jesus?
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Does this produce good fruit?
If something contradicts Scripture, it is not from God.
4. Be Sensitive to the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is our guide. When faced with a spiritual situation, take a moment to listen to the Holy Spirit’s prompting.
5. Seek Godly Counsel
If you sense something spiritually wrong but are unsure, seek advice from spiritually mature leaders or mentors. God often confirms discernment through others.
6. Avoid Relying Solely on Feelings
Spiritual discernment is not based on emotions but on God’s truth. Always compare your discernment with Scripture to ensure it aligns with God’s will.
Misconceptions About the Gift of Discerning of Spirits
1. It Is the Same as Natural Intuition
Discernment is a supernatural gift, not just human intuition or a strong opinion. It comes from the Holy Spirit, not from personal wisdom.
2. It Is Only for Church Leaders
While pastors and spiritual leaders benefit greatly from this gift, it is available to all believers. Anyone filled with the Holy Spirit can receive and develop this gift.
3. It Is Used to Judge Others
Some people mistakenly use discernment to criticize or condemn others. However, the true purpose is to protect, guide, and build up the church, not to judge people unfairly.
The gift of discerning of spirits is a powerful spiritual gift that helps believers distinguish between good and evil, recognize false teachings, and engage in spiritual warfare. It is essential for protecting the church and growing in faith.
By staying rooted in Scripture, praying for wisdom, and listening to the Holy Spirit, believers can develop this gift and use it effectively to glorify God and strengthen their faith.