What is Discernment?

As a leader, it can sometimes be difficult to know who to trust. We may encounter people who are not who they seem to be. These people may appear to want to help us but actually want to harm us. 

Discernment is the ability to see people for who they really are. It’s discerning safety from harm.

When we look at the leadership of Jesus, we see He taught His disciples to have discernment. In Matthew 10:16, Jesus stated, “I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves” (NLT). 

“Shrewd as snakes” is a direct reference to Genesis. Genesis 3:1 reads, “The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made” (NLT). If you remember this story, then you know the serpent (Satan) used his shrewdness to tempt Adam and Eve. As a result, sin entered the world, and humanity’s relationship with God became estranged.

Based on Genesis 3:1, shrewdness could be viewed as a characteristic of Satan. As Christians, we don’t want to imitate Satan. However, we do want to know how he works. 

While Christian leaders need to have devilish wisdom, we also need to keep it in check. That’s why Jesus’ instruction had two parts: “Be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves.” Satan’s shrewdness caused harm. Because of this, Jesus instructed His disciples to do no harm. We need to think like the enemy without acting like the enemy. 

Think about it: How can you use your discernment to protect those you lead from potential harm?

A Leader Worth Imitating,  Principle 10: Discernment