Always Look to Jehovah for Discernment

To follow an upright course in life, all of us need to acknowledge our imperfection and look to Jehovah for spiritual discernment. Says Proverbs 2:6-9: "Jehovah himself gives wisdom; out of his mouth there are knowledge and discernment. And for the upright ones he will treasure up  practical wisdom; for those walking in integrity he is a shield, by observing the paths of judgment, and he will guard  the very way of his loyal ones.  In that case you will understand righteousness and judgment and uprightness, the entire course  of what is good." -Compare  James 4:6. 

Acknowledging our dependence upon Jehovah, let us humbly seek to discern his will by delving deeply into his Word.  He possesses wisdom in the absolute sense, and his counsel is always beneficial.  (Isaiah 40:13; Romans 11:34) In fact, any advice  that stands in opposition  to him is valueless. Proverbs 21:30 states:  "There is no wisdom, nor any discernment, nor any counsel in opposition to Jehovah." (Compare Proverbs 19:21)  Only spiritual discernment, developed by a study of God's Word with the help of publications provided through "the  faithful and discreet slave," will help us to pursue a proper course in life.  (Matthew 24:45-47) Therefore, let us direct our way of life in harmony with the counsel of Jehovah, knowing that no matter how plausible contrary advice may seem, it cannot stand against his Word.

Discerning Christians who give counsel realize that it should be based solidly on God's Word and that Bible study and meditation are required before answering a question. (Proverbs 15:28) If question about serious matters are wrongly answered, great harm can result. Hence, Christian elders need spiritual discernment and should pray for Jehovah's guidance when endeavoring to  assist fellow believers spiritually. 

Next time: Abound With Spiritual Discernment

From the Watchtower magazine, 1997