JESUS SPEAKING
He asked his disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” So they said, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 16: 13 – 17)
INSPIRED THOUGHTS
Despite observing His numerous miracles, the disciples remained uncertain as to which biblical figure Jesus represented (some believed He was a prophet.) And yet God instantly accomplished a work in Peter’s heart; initiating a revelation of truth. Jesus was in fact, the Christ; the promised Messiah and the Son of God. This account represents what is commonly referred to in Christian tradition as ‘spiritual discernment;’ a supernatural understanding of right and wrong, as it applies to the truth, or any given circumstance.
I once heard an elderly Pastor explain an experience he’d encountered during the early days of his growing Church. As more congregants arrived, the size of the facility became inadequate. Taking a leap of faith, he purchased a large piece of property on credit; supposing that God would provide for their financial needs. As it happened, a very wealthy congregant offered to pay off the entire loan immediately. Those bound by human wisdom would’ve accepted the offer. The Pastor however, carefully considered the proposition. In turn, God gave him spiritual discernment. Sensing that something wasn’t right, he rejected the man’s offer. Shortly thereafter, he was approached by a gas company that wanted to put a station in the area; they offered to buy a tiny sliver of land. The purchase was approved, and the money received was enough to pay off the entire loan. God eventually confirmed the correctness of his earlier decision, when he began having problems with the man who had offered to pay for the Church’s loan.
’Spiritual discernment’ is a precious gift from the Lord. The indwelling of His Holy Spirit provides those who believe with knowledge and understanding that transcends human wisdom. In this way, the faithful are often protected from the repercussions of sinful calamity and foolish decision m making. May we always hear the voice of God, and rightly discern our steps; that we may bring glory and honor to the one who saved us from death.
”Lord Heavenly Father, we understand the dangerous nature of human wisdom. We concede that You alone are the provider of all truth. Fill our hearts with Your Holy Spirit, that we might practice genuine discernment. In turn, may we avoid sin and accomplish your good works. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name, amen.” God bless all of you!
