40 Bible Verses About Discernment And Wisdom
Here are 40 Bible verses that provide godly wisdom and instruction for increased discernment. As Christians trying to walk a righteous path, having proper discernment is so important, yet also very difficult. With misleading advertisements, fake news, rumors and questionable advice constantly surrounding us, determining truth from lies can feel overwhelming. Even Bible verses can be taken out of context or misinterpreted to justify things God does not actually support. My prayer is that you discover fresh revelation in God's word about distinguishing truth from deception.
1. 1 Kings 3:9 - Seeking a Discerning Heart
“So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?"
In this verse, Solomon asks God for a discerning heart to lead His people well. As we seek to make wise choices and navigate complex situations, let's follow Solomon's example and ask God for discernment. When we humbly acknowledge our need for His guidance and wisdom, He is faithful to provide it.
2. Philippians 1:9-10 - Growing in Discernment Through Love
“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.”
Paul's prayer for the Philippians reminds us that discernment grows as we grow in love. The more we love God and others, the more we will desire to know what is true and right. As our love abounds in knowledge and insight, we will be better equipped to discern what is best and live pure and blameless lives.
3. Psalm 119:66 - Learning from God's Commands
“Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I trust your commands.”
The psalmist recognizes that true knowledge and good judgment come from trusting and following God's commands. As we study and meditate on God's Word, we gain the wisdom and discernment we need to make godly choices. Let's make it a daily practice to learn from His commands and allow them to shape our thinking and decision-making.
4. 1 Corinthians 2:14 - Discernment Through the Holy Spirit
“The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.”
This verse reminds us that true discernment comes through the Holy Spirit. As believers, we have the incredible gift of the Spirit living within us, guiding us into all truth. When we rely on His wisdom and insight, rather than our own understanding, we can discern what is of God and what is not.
5. Hebrews 5:14 - Training for Discernment
“But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.”
Just like physical exercise strengthens our bodies, regularly exercising our discernment muscles strengthens our ability to distinguish good from evil. As we consistently study God's Word, pray for wisdom and put His truth into practice, we will grow in spiritual maturity and discernment.
6. James 1:5 - Asking God for Wisdom
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
When we face difficult decisions or complex situations, we can confidently ask God for the wisdom we need. He promises to give generously to all who ask, without finding fault. What an incredible promise! Let's boldly approach His throne of grace and ask for the wisdom and discernment we need.
7. 1 Kings 4:29 - Receiving God-Given Wisdom
“God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore.”
Just as God gave Solomon extraordinary wisdom and insight, He wants to give us the same. When we seek His face and depend on His Spirit, He will equip us with the wisdom and discernment we need to navigate life's challenges and make a difference in the world around us.
8. Proverbs 3:21-22 - Holding onto Sound Judgment
“My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck.”
These verses urge us to keep wisdom, understanding and sound judgment at the forefront of our minds. When we hold onto these qualities and allow them to guide our thoughts and actions, they will bring life and grace to every area of our lives.
9. Proverbs 2:3-5 - Seeking Wisdom Like Treasure
“Indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.”
Proverbs 2 paints a beautiful picture of the value of wisdom and understanding. When we seek these qualities with the same passion and persistence as we would search for hidden treasure, we will grow in our fear of the Lord and knowledge of God. Let's make the pursuit of godly wisdom a top priority in our lives.
10. Ephesians 5:17 - Understanding the Lord's Will
“Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.”
Discernment is closely tied to understanding and following God's will for our lives. As we seek His guidance through prayer, Bible study and wise counsel, we can gain clarity on the path He has for us. Let's be intentional about understanding His will and aligning our lives with His purposes.
11. Ezekiel 44:23 - Teaching Others to Discern
“They are to teach my people the difference between the holy and the common and show them how to distinguish between the unclean and the clean.”
This verse, directed to the Levitical priests, emphasizes the importance of teaching others to discern between what is holy and what is common, what is clean and what is unclean. As believers, we too have a responsibility to help others grow in discernment by sharing God's truth and modeling wise decision-making.
12. 1 Corinthians 12:10 - Distinguishing Between Spirits
“To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another distinguishing between spirits; to another diverse kinds of tongues; to another interpretation of tongues:”
Among the spiritual gifts listed in 1 Corinthians 12 is the ability to distinguish between spirits. This gift of discernment allows believers to recognize whether a message or teaching is from God or from a deceiving spirit. As we grow in our relationship with God and sensitivity to His Spirit, we can develop this crucial ability to discern truth from error.
13. Hebrews 4:12 - Allowing God's Word to Discern Our Hearts
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
God's Word is a powerful tool for discernment, not only in the world around us but also within our own hearts. As we read and meditate on Scripture, it penetrates our innermost being, revealing our thoughts, attitudes and motivations. Let's allow His Word to shape and refine us from the inside out.
14. John 7:24 - Judging with Right Judgment
“Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.”
In this verse, Jesus urges us to avoid superficial judgments based on appearances and instead judge with right judgment. True discernment looks beyond the surface and seeks to understand the heart of a matter. As we rely on God's wisdom and guidance, we can make accurate assessments and respond with truth and grace.
15. Isaiah 11:2-3 - Embracing the Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding
“The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him - the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the LORD - and he will delight in the fear of the LORD.”
This prophecy about the Messiah reveals the incredible qualities of the Holy Spirit that are available to us as believers. As we embrace the Spirit of wisdom, understanding, counsel and knowledge, we will grow in our ability to discern God's will and make choices that honor Him.
16. 2 Corinthians 11:14-15 - Recognizing False Messengers
“And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.”
These verses warn us that not everyone who claims to speak for God is actually a true messenger of His truth. Satan and his servants can disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, leading people astray. We must use discernment to recognize false teachers and messages, holding everything up to the light of God's Word.
17. 1 John 4:1 - Testing the Spirits
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
Similar to 2 Corinthians 11, this verse urges us to test the spirits to determine whether they are from God. In a world filled with spiritual deception, we cannot simply believe every message or teaching we hear. We must carefully evaluate them against the truth of Scripture and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
18. Acts 17:11 - Examining the Scriptures
“Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”
The Berean Jews set a powerful example of discernment in action. When they heard Paul's teaching, they didn't just accept it blindly. Instead, they eagerly examined the Scriptures daily to verify its truth. Let's develop the same habit of regularly studying God's Word and using it as our standard for discernment.
19. Exodus 35:34-35 - Receiving God-Given Abilities
“And the Lord has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others. He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work—to design and execute artistic works in gold, silver and bronze.”
Just as God gave Bezalel and Oholiab specialized skills and abilities, He gives each of us unique gifts and talents to use for His glory. Some may have a special gift of discernment, while others may have wisdom in specific areas of life. Let's embrace the abilities God has given us and use them to serve Him and others.
20. Proverbs 18:15 - Seeking Knowledge with a Discerning Heart
“The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.”
A discerning heart is one that actively seeks out knowledge and wisdom. It listens carefully, asks questions and pursues understanding. As we cultivate a heart of discernment, let's be intentional about acquiring godly knowledge and applying it to our lives.
21. Proverbs 3:13-14 - Finding Wisdom More Valuable Than Riches
“Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.”
These verses underscore the incredible value of wisdom and understanding. They are more precious than silver and gold, offering blessings and rewards that money cannot buy. As we pursue discernment, let's remember that we are seeking a treasure of eternal worth.
22. Proverbs 14:15 - Giving Thought to Our Steps
“A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives thought to his steps.”
Discernment involves careful consideration and wise decision-making. Rather than believing everything we hear or acting on impulse, we must give thought to our steps and carefully evaluate our choices. Let's be prudent in our actions and seek God's guidance in every decision we make.
23. Jeremiah 17:9 - Recognizing the Deceitfulness of the Heart
“The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?”
This verse reminds us of the inherent deceitfulness of the human heart. We cannot always trust our own thoughts and feelings, as they can lead us astray. That's why it's so important to rely on God's truth and the guidance of His Spirit, rather than our own understanding.
24. Romans 12:2 - Renewing Our Minds for Discernment
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Discernment requires a renewed mind that is no longer conformed to the patterns of this world. As we allow God's Word and Spirit to transform our thinking, we will be better equipped to discern His will and make choices that please Him.
25. Ezekiel 22:26 - Distinguishing Between Holy and Common
“Her priests do violence to my law and profane my holy things; they do not distinguish between the holy and the common; they teach that there is no difference between the unclean and the clean; and they shut their eyes to the keeping of my Sabbaths, so that I am profaned among them.”
This passage warns against the danger of failing to distinguish between what is holy and what is common, what is clean and what is unclean. As believers, we must be careful to discern the difference and live in a way that honors God and keeps His holy things sacred.
26. Daniel 2:21 - Receiving Wisdom from God
“He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.”
This verse reminds us that all wisdom and discernment ultimately come from God. He is the one who gives insight and understanding to those who seek Him. Let's acknowledge our dependence on Him and ask for the wisdom we need to navigate the challenges and decisions we face.
27. Hebrews 4:12 - Allowing God's Word to Discern Our Hearts
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
God's Word is a powerful tool for discernment, not only in the world around us but also within our own hearts. As we read and meditate on Scripture, it penetrates our innermost being, revealing our thoughts, attitudes and motivations. Let's allow His Word to shape and refine us from the inside out.
28. Proverbs 11:22 - Valuing Discretion
“Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.”
This proverb uses a vivid image to emphasize the importance of discretion. Just as a gold ring is wasted on a pig, outward beauty is diminished by a lack of discernment and good judgment. Let's cultivate inner beauty that comes from a discerning spirit.
29. Ecclesiastes 8:5 - Knowing the Proper Time and Procedure
“Whoever obeys his command will come to no harm, and the wise heart will know the proper time and procedure.”
Discernment involves not only knowing what to do but also when and how to do it. A wise heart seeks to understand the proper time and procedure for every situation. Let's ask God for the wisdom to discern the right course of action and the right timing in every circumstance.
30. Proverbs 15:14 - Feeding on Wisdom
“The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.”
What we feed our hearts and minds matters. A discerning heart will seek out knowledge and wisdom, while a foolish one will consume folly and deception. Let's be careful about what we allow to influence our thinking and choose to feed on the truth of God's Word.
31. Proverbs 19:25 - Learning from Correction
“Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke the discerning, and they will gain knowledge.”
This proverb teaches us that correction and rebuke can be valuable tools for growth in discernment. While a mocker may need harsh discipline to learn prudence, a discerning person will gain knowledge from a simple rebuke. Let's be open to correction and use it as an opportunity to grow in wisdom.
32. 1 Kings 3:28 - Receiving Wisdom from God for Justice
“When all Israel heard the verdict the king had given, they held the king in awe, because they saw that he had wisdom from God to administer justice.”
This verse describes the reaction of the people to Solomon's wise judgment. They recognized that his wisdom came from God and enabled him to administer justice fairly. As we seek to discern right from wrong and make just decisions, let's rely on the wisdom that comes from God alone.
33. Proverbs 23:23 - Investing in Truth, Wisdom and Insight
“Buy the truth and do not sell it— wisdom, instruction and insight as well.”
This verse urges us to place a high value on truth, wisdom, instruction and insight. We should be willing to invest time, effort and resources into acquiring these qualities and holding onto them tightly. Let's make the pursuit of godly wisdom a priority in our lives.
34. Proverbs 28:7 - Heeding Instruction
“A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.”
A mark of a discerning person is the willingness to heed instruction and wise counsel. Rather than ignoring advice or falling into foolish company, a discerning son or daughter will listen to and apply the guidance they receive. Let's cultivate a teachable spirit that is open to instruction.
35. 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 - Exercising Spiritual Gifts
“To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.”
This passage lists various spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit, including the gift of distinguishing between spirits. As we exercise the gifts God has given us, we can grow in our ability to discern what is from Him and what is not. Let's be faithful stewards of the gifts we have received and use them to build up the body of Christ.
36. 2 Samuel 14:17 - Discerning Good and Evil
“Your maidservant said, ‘The word of my lord the king will now be comforting; for as the angel of God, so is my lord the king in discerning good and evil. And may the LORD your God be with you.’”"
In this verse, a wise woman compares King David's discernment to that of the angel of God. She recognizes his ability to discern between good and evil and the comfort that his judgments bring. As we grow in our own discernment, may we also bring comfort and clarity to those around us.
37. Proverbs 17:24 - Keeping Wisdom in View
“A discerning person keeps wisdom in view, but a fool’s eyes wander to the ends of the earth.”
This proverb contrasts the focus of a discerning person with that of a fool. While a fool's attention is distracted and aimless, a discerning person keeps wisdom at the forefront of their mind. Let's fix our eyes on God's wisdom and make it the guiding principle of our lives.
38. Ezekiel 44:2 - Acting as Wise Judges
“In any dispute, they shall act as judges, and judge it according to my ordinances. They shall keep my laws and my statutes regarding all my appointed festivals, and they shall keep my Sabbaths holy.”
This verse describes the role of the Levitical priests in judging disputes and upholding God's laws. As believers, we are called to exercise discernment and wise judgment in our own spheres of influence. Let's seek to apply God's Word faithfully and lead others in the way of righteousness.
39. 1 Corinthians 2:15-16 - Having the Mind of Christ
“The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things, but such a person is not subject to merely human judgments, for, “Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.”
These powerful verses remind us that as believers, we have the incredible privilege of having the mind of Christ. Through the Holy Spirit, we can make Spirit-led judgments and discern the things of God. Let's lean into this truth and allow the mind of Christ to shape our thoughts and decisions.
40. Proverbs 28:11 - Discerning True Wisdom
“The rich are wise in their own eyes; one who is poor and discerning sees how deluded they are.”
This proverb reminds us that true wisdom is not always found in those who are wealthy or successful by worldly standards. Sometimes, it is the poor and discerning who can see through the delusions of the self-satisfied. Let's not be swayed by external appearances but seek wisdom from God's perspective.
I hope reflecting on these 40 Bible verses about discernment and wisdom helps us grow as we follow Christ daily. Discernment is not having all the answers or making perfect decisions every time. It is consistently seeking God's wisdom, aligning our hearts with His truth and relying on the guidance of His Spirit.
Let’s keep pressing into God's Word, spending time in His presence and surrounding ourselves with wise counsel. As we do, we’ll find our discernment muscles growing stronger day by day. We’ll be better able to navigate the challenges and choices we face with clarity, confidence and grace.
FAQs
What is the biblical definition of discernment?
In the Bible, discernment is the ability to distinguish between right and wrong, truth and deception and wisdom and folly. It involves making wise judgments based on God's Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Why is discernment important for Christians?
Discernment is crucial for Christians because it helps us navigate a world filled with conflicting messages, temptations and spiritual deception. By growing in discernment, we can make choices that align with God's will, protect ourselves from false teachings and live a life that honors Him.
How can I grow in discernment?
You can grow in discernment by consistently studying and meditating on God's Word, spending time in prayer and seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance and surrounding yourself with wise and godly counsel. It's also important to cultivate humility, teachability and a willingness to be corrected when necessary.
What role does the Holy Spirit play in discernment?
The Holy Spirit is essential for true discernment. He guides us into all truth, reveals the thoughts and intentions of the heart and helps us understand and apply God's Word. As we yield to His leading and rely on His wisdom, we can grow in our ability to discern what is of God and what is not.
How can I exercise discernment in my daily life?
You can exercise discernment in your daily life by prayerfully considering the choices you make, the messages you listen to and the influences you allow in your life. Ask God for wisdom in your relationships, your work and your ministry. Be willing to seek godly counsel and make decisions based on biblical principles rather than worldly wisdom.
