Sermon July 5
Nehemiah 6:1-19
Do you know how to discern the truth? The enemy doesn’t attack with just force; Satan’s tactics employ deception, reputation, relationships, and religion. The repeated question is: Can you recognize what’s really happening beneath what appears to be true? “Discernment sees beyond appearances to recognize character, motives, and God’s truth.” (v.1-4) DISCERNMENT OR FLATTERY? “Flattery is saying what you want to hear” Not every opportunity is your assignment. Good opportunities can become bad distractions. “Discernment is knowing the difference between a divine appointment and a dangerous distraction.” (v.5-9) DISCERNMENT OR MANIPULATION? Discern when criticism is correction and when it is manipulation. You don’t have to answer every rumor. People who know your character are harder to deceive. Character is your greatest defense. (v.10-14) DISCERNMENT OR FALSE SPIRITUALITY? This is perhaps the most dangerous attack. “Every prophetic word must be tested by the character of God and the Word of God.” Nehemiah knew that he was not allowed in the inner chamber but should he make an exception to save his life? If it doesn’t match the Word of God it’s not from God. (v.15-19) DISCERNMENT OR INFLUENCE? Family ties. Business relationships. Political alliances. You can become so connected to worldly interests that you can no longer see clearly. Politics can cloud discernment. Business can cloud discernment. “The ways of God are foolishness to the world.” THE KEY TO DISCERNMENT IS KNOWING GOD AND KNOWING HIS WORD. CHECK THE FRUIT. IF THERE’S GOOD FRUIT THERE’S A GOOD ROOT.
Discussion Questions
- How can a person become better at discernment? Is it something you are born with? Is it learned? Is it a combination of both?
- What is at stake if you don’t discern correctly?
- How qualified is Satan to deceive God’s People? What does the bible say about His deception of the People of God?
