Discernment is considered a spiritual virtue, and the mark of a wise and compassionate person of sound judgment. It is the ability to look past what’s not immediately evident – to distinguish what’s unique or true from that which is superficial. Simply put, discernment is the ability to distinguish and to know right from wrong.
If you’re a good judge of character; if you feel a duty to help people see right from wrong and if you are usually correct when you feel something is amiss, you have discernment.
“Discernment” is not “judgment.” Judgment comes from the Greek word for “condemn.” When you judge someone, you make decisions about their general worthiness.
Discernment, on the other hand, comes from the Greek word “to separate,” or to see the truth from the fabrication. It is to see people, and things, as they actually are.
The discernment process requires time and using both the head and the heart in making an assessment.
Good decisions and good choices are the results of discernment. Thus, making the process of discernment an achievement–a virtuous act that sets a foundation for accurate perception.
Here are some tips to help you develop your ability to discern:
Never stop learning. When a bank is teaching tellers how to detect counterfeit dollar bills, the tellers must study real bills, and become familiar with every last detail. The more you learn, the less likely you’ll be deceived.
Pray. Ask for divine guidance in developing and trusting your spiritual gift of discernment.
Meditate. When you quiet the chatter of your mind, you’ll be more able to hear your divine inner voice.
Trust. Remember compassion is always appropriate, but trust is earned. Be kind but be slow to believe in someone or something. Give yourself time to “go deep” into the heart of it before you entrust it with your complete confidence.
Discernment is necessary for making decisions, and you’re making thousands of decisions daily. To learn more about our holistic healing program, in San Diego or Austin, visit Optimum Health Institute. We can help you achieve your mental, physical, emotional and spiritual goals for optimal health. To make your reservation, call us at (800) 588-0809.
