Verse of the day:
Are you struggling to hear God’s voice in the noise of daily life? Discernment is one of the most valuable gifts God offers us, and using it can transform the way you make decisions. In the whirlwind of life’s decisions, it’s crucial to know who’s speaking into your heart—God or the enemy. In today’s Bible study we will look at Christ Jesus’ example for us and glean lessons from it.
Matthew 16:21-23
From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.
Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You!”
But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.”
A study note:
Jesus Christ knew His purpose for which He was on earth, He knew the assignment of God over His life so everything contrary to that assignment was of the devil and likewise anything taking Him a way from that from His life purpose was of the devil that is why He said Peter that “Get behind Me, satan!” Jesus Christ discerned immediately that this was the voice of the enemy speaking through Peter and He sternly and steadfastly rebuked him and said to him, “You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.“
2 Corinthians 10:3 says; For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh and Ephesians 6:12 says; For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of [a]the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Lessons of the day:
Discernment is more than just good judgement—it’s the ability to recognise God’s will amidst the noise of life. As believers, we are called to walk in wisdom, making decisions that align with God’s will. But in a world full of distractions, how can we be sure that we’re hearing God’s voice clearly?
Basing on our verse of the day and study note, we learn that;
Know God’s purpose/ assignment for your life!!
Jesus Christ knew His God given assignment and life purpose for which He was in this world and because of this He was able quickly discern that it was the voice of the enemy speaking through Peter in attempt to deter Him from His God’s will and immediately He sternly and steadfastly rebuked him. Therefore likewise you need to know God’s purpose and assignment for your life in order to be able to discern if it is the voice of God directing you or if its enemy distracting you from God’s will.
Seek God to show you your purpose in life for He created each one of us with a purpose. Proverbs 29:18 says; “Where there is no [a]revelation, the people cast off restraint..” The KJV version of this verse says; “Where there is no vision, the people perish..“
If you do not have a revelation of your God given purpose/ vision for your life and a revelation of the Word of God, you will be easily taken off to this and that without restraint for you won’t be able to discern if the thing is of God or of the enemy. Therefore it is very important to be sure of your purpose in life so that you are able to discern the distraction from the enemy set to hinder/ stop your purpose.
You see, your God given purpose is not limited to the benefit of just you as an individual, there is always a bigger picture to your purpose; it is for the benefit of the kingdom of God and His people. This is the more reason the enemy will try to distract you from either discovering it or from fulfilling it (if you have already discovered it)
In discovering your life purpose, anything that seeks to gratify the flesh solely, it is of the enemy for he is not mindful of the things of God but the things of men. Have discernment. The enemy is so cunning, he can use cunning language disguised in false love or care.
Seek revelation from God and study His Word so you can discern God’s voice from the enemy’s Lies.
Conclusion: Grow in Discernment and Walk Confidently in God’s Plan
Learning to discern God’s voice is a journey that requires commitment to studying the Word of God and prayer. But as you grow in your ability to hear Him, you’ll find greater peace, wisdom, and direction in your life. Don’t be afraid to ask God for clarity—He loves to speak to those who seek Him diligently with all their hearts! Remember, discernment is a journey, and with God’s help, you can continue to grow in His wisdom and you can live a life that reflects His will and brings glory to Him in every decision you make.
Call to Action:
Take a moment to reflect on your current decisions—are you seeking God’s voice? Commit to growing in discernment by spending time in prayer and the Bible, seeking God’s guidance in whatever decision or situation. Ask God to sharpen your spiritual ears, and trust that He will lead you with wisdom and clarity in all things.