Mars Hill Fellowship

MESSAGE |

Wisdom + Discernment

SERIES |

WALKING WITH GOD |  Knowing and Discerning the Voice and Will of God

SCRIPTURE |

Matthew 4:1-11

SPEAKER |

Pastor Joseph Ardayfio

KEY THEME |

As we hear God’s voice through prayer + His Word, we need Godly Wisdom + Discernment to be able to understand how to apply His instructions to our life.

1)     We must be able to use discernment when the pressures of life are placed upon us, especially in the areas of: provision, protection, and priority.  These are basic human needs and if we are not careful, we will only do what the flesh desires or says it wants.

2)    Discernment is not “just doing what makes sense” or doing the “opposite of what makes sense.”  It is the ability to distinguish God’s voice + will in a situation. [Authenticating His Voice]

3)    In order to walk in wisdom in discernment, you need:

a.  A desire to please God no matter what the circumstances.

b.  A humble heart before God; willing to be trained according to the wisdom that is from above.

c.  Boldness to hear God’s voice and obey.

4)    How Do We Exercise Godly Wisdom + Discernment?

a.     Walk by the Spirit  – 1 Cor. 2:9-15; You cannot have wisdom without the Holy Spirit.

b.     Allow Your Mind to Be Renewed  – Romans 12:2; Meditating on the Word of God; Paying attention to what you allow to come into your Spirit.

c.     Test Decisions Against the Plain Instruction of The Word – 2 Timothy 2:15; Literal, Plain-Meaning + Context.

d.     Test Decisions Against the Virtues of Godly Wisdom - James 3:17 – The Wisdom from above is pure; peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.

thoughts for further study

1)      What are the differences between Godly and Worldly Wisdom?  Are they mutually exclusive?

2)      How did Jesus use Godly wisdom in dealing with Satan?

3)      What are some practical challenges you have with walking in Godly Wisdom?  How can you grow in the area of Godly Wisdom