soul journey 
If you want more blessings in your life you need to grow your spiritual understanding and develop discernment. Discernment is the ability to perceive and understand God’s will and direction in your life. Developing spiritual understanding and discernment of God’s will requires a deep relationship with Him, guided by His Word, prayer, and the Holy Spirit.
When you align your heart and mind with God’s truths you can recognize His guidance in every aspect of life. When you practice discernment, you align your choices with His plans, opening the door to numerous blessings. Here are steps to grow your discernment and spiritual understanding:
1. Seek God Through His Word
- The Bible is God’s revealed will for humanity. Studying Scripture helps you understand His character, principles, and desires for your life.
- “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105).
- How to Apply:
- Set aside regular time to read and meditate on Scripture.
- Use Bible study tools or join a small group for deeper understanding.
- Look for how biblical principles apply to your daily decisions.
2. Develop a Consistent Prayer Life
- Prayer connects you with God, allowing you to seek His wisdom and align your desires with His.
- “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” (James 1:5).
- How to Apply:
- Pray daily, asking for guidance and clarity about God’s will.
- Be still and listen for the Holy Spirit’s promptings during prayer.
- Use prayer journals to record your requests and how God responds.
3. Be Filled with the Holy Spirit
- The Holy Spirit is your guide, helping you discern God’s will and giving you spiritual insight.
- “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13).
- How to Apply:
- Surrender your life to God daily, inviting the Holy Spirit to lead you.
- Be sensitive to the Spirit’s promptings and convictions.
- Regularly evaluate if your actions align with the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
4. Practice Obedience
- God reveals more of His will to those who are faithful in obeying what they already know.
- “Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me” (John 14:21).
- How to Apply:
- Act on the truths you learn from Scripture and prayer.
- Trust God with the outcomes, even when obedience feels difficult or unclear.
5. Cultivate a Teachable Spirit
- Spiritual discernment grows when you’re humble and willing to learn from God and others.
- “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5).
- How to Apply:
- Be open to correction and wisdom from godly mentors.
- Approach challenges and questions with a heart ready to learn.
6. Spend Time in Worship and Reflection
- Worship draws you closer to God, fostering a deeper awareness of His presence and will.
- “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).
- How to Apply:
- Include worship in your daily routine through music, gratitude, and quiet time.
- Reflect on God’s faithfulness and how He has worked in your life.
7. Surround Yourself with Godly Counsel
- Wise, spiritually mature friends and mentors can provide clarity and confirmation of God’s will.
- “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22).
- How to Apply:
- Seek advice from trusted Christians when making decisions.
- Join a church or small group to grow in fellowship and accountability.
- For a great spiritual community, join us for Readings From The Road each morning at 7:30 on the page Messages From The Road.
8. Test All Things Against Scripture
- Not every opportunity or feeling aligns with God’s will. Use Scripture as the ultimate measure.
- “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” (Romans 12:2).
- How to Apply:
- Compare your thoughts and decisions with biblical principles.
- Be cautious of choices that conflict with God’s Word.
9. Trust God’s Timing
- Sometimes, God’s will is revealed gradually. Patience and faith are essential
- “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:14).
- How to Apply:
- Resist the urge to rush decisions; seek clarity through prayer and counsel.
- Trust that God is working even when answers seem delayed.
10. Evaluate Your Desires
- God often places His desires in your heart when you are walking closely with Him.
- “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4).
- How to Apply:
- Regularly examine whether your goals align with God’s purposes.
- Pray for God to purify your desires to reflect His will.
11. Learn from Life’s Experiences
- Challenges, trials, and blessings can all be used by God to teach you and guide your understanding of His will.
- “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him” (Romans 8:28).
- How to Apply:
- Reflect on how past events have shaped your faith and decisions.
- Ask God to reveal lessons and direction through your circumstances.
12. Keep an Eternal Perspective
- God’s ultimate will is for you to glorify Him and grow in Christlikeness. Keeping this focus helps discern priorities.
- “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).
- How to Apply:
- Align your goals with God’s eternal purposes, not just temporary concerns.
- Make choices that reflect your identity as a follower of Christ.
By consistently seeking God, surrendering to His Spirit, and grounding yourself in His Word, your spiritual understanding and discernment will deepen. You’ll develop the ability to recognize His voice, trust His plans, and walk confidently in His will. This will open up a world of blessings to you.
