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#discernment — Public Fediverse posts

Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #discernment, aggregated by home.social.

  1. Jamin Bradley @[email protected] ·

    Learning to Discern Criticism in Ministry

    I once sat down for lunch with a congregant, only to be blindsided by the opening comment: “You preached the worst Easter message I’ve ever heard.”

    During the pandemic, when our church was online, a congregant told me they sometimes turn the service off when they don’t like what I’m preaching.

    In ministry, you must learn to discern the critique you’re given. You must be humble enough to listen, but also recognize that you can’t please everyone in our very opinionated world, where visitors leave Google reviews and online ratings of churches. Many of our criticisms do not come from the Holy Spirit (though some will make it seem so), but from our own pain, preferences, and hardness of heart. These kinds of critiques will eat us alive if we’re not careful.

    Be humble enough to hear critique openly—even invite it, especially with people you trust—but don’t assume every single critique you’ve ever received is correct. And even if it is correct, it may not always be substantive. For example, I once put a Bible passage on the screen with the wrong verse reference, causing someone to come to me in tears. Did I not respect the Bible enough to proofread the slides? Was Scripture not sacred to me? The criticism was correct, but this was an over-the-top response to a copy-and-paste issue on the slides.

    On top of all these external voices of critique, pastors also face internal ones.

    Jim looked at me weirdly when I said that thing in my message last week, and now they’re not here today. 

    I tried to be faithful to what I thought I was supposed to preach, and now attendance is down. 

    I know that worship song stretched people a bit, but it was perfect for the message, and now that couple is probably never coming back. 

    Did that person leave the sanctuary to use the bathroom, or did I say something wrong?

    Maybe I didn’t make that new person feel comfortable enough. 

    Maybe I did too much of this. 

    Maybe I did too little of that.

    Pastors carry a heavy weight in their minds. We all know that a big part of what people look for in a church is whether or not they like the pastor. When people visit your church and don’t come back, it’s hard not to take it personally. When people who usually go to your church disappear for a month, you wonder what you did. 

    Some critiques are nothing more than preference. Some critiques are fair. Some critiques are very important, and you should make the necessary changes immediately. But use discernment as to what’s what.

    Jesus faced criticism all the time. Try to learn to process it and deal with it like he did. There have been so many critiques I needed to hear that have made me a better person, a better preacher, and a better pastor. But there have also been some that have been so painful that I’ve needed inner healing to get them to stop constantly replaying in my mind. Bring all critiques before Jesus in prayer and humility, and he’ll help you discern through them and heal from the toxic ones.

    #church #churchLeadership #criticism #discernment #encouragement #HolySpirit #leadership #ministry #ministryLife #pastor #pastors #prayer #preaching #spiritualFormation
    #spiritualformation #preaching #prayer #pastors #pastor #ministrylife
  2. Slow Mover @[email protected] ·

    The Third Sight

    If there are storms in the night that I did not hear, did they appear? They were predicted but did not wake me.

    As a child, I would put my hands over my eyes and say, “You can’t see me.” What is this need to discount what I can not see with my own eyes?

    Not – I think therefore I am. Rather, I see. Therefore, the world, the other, you, exist.

    The eyes are indeed a light. But vision is more than the jumbled contents of an optometrist’s eye chart.

    Can second sight be learned? Or is it a gift given to a few?

    I wonder if there is a third sight – the ability to see beyond the veil and yet not be blind to what is right in front of us.

    For inner sight, divorced from physical existence, is merely narcissistic navel gazing. And vice versa, incessant attention to the outer without inner reflection is tantamount to the blind leading the blind.

    Some blindness is healed gradually. Some immediately after the laying on of hands. Some after the smearing on of spit and mud.

    Some of us never have our sight restored.

    Awareness acknowledges that things are not always what they appear.

    And that I am always in need of clearer sight.

    #Awareness #beyondTheVeil #BlindnessAndSight #ChristianSpirituality #clarity #ContemplativeWriting #discernment #embodiedSpirituality #eyesOfTheHeart #faithAndVision #healingSight #innerAndOuterLife #innerVision #JesusAndHealing #layingOnOfHands #Mindfulness #mystery #optometristMetaphor #perception #prayerfulReflection #SecondSight #seeingAndBelieving #seeingClearly #selfReflection #spiritualAwareness #spiritualBlindness #SpiritualReflection #spiritualSight #spitAndMud #stormsInTheNight #theLightOfTheEyes #theologyOfSight #thirdEye #thirdSight #unseenRealities #Wisdom
    #awareness #beyondtheveil #blindnessandsight #christianspirituality #clarity #contemplativewriting
  3. Biblians @[email protected] ·

    Test the spirits, stay rooted in God, and grow. 🌿

    #biblians #bibliansapp #verseoftheday #1John4 #discernment #staygrounded #truthmatters #falseprophets

    #biblians #bibliansapp #verseoftheday #1john4 #discernment #staygrounded
  4. Biblians @[email protected] ·

    Test the spirits, stay rooted in God, and grow. 🌿

    #biblians #bibliansapp #verseoftheday #1John4 #discernment #staygrounded #truthmatters #falseprophets

    #biblians #bibliansapp #verseoftheday #1john4 #discernment #staygrounded
  5. Bryan King @[email protected] ·

    Faith Over Fear: Daily Steps to Trust God in Tough Times

    744 words, 4 minutes read time.

    The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1, NIV)

    Introduction

    When tough times come, it’s easy to get caught up in fear and uncertainty. But as Christians, we have a greater option available to us: trusting God in the midst of chaos.

    In Psalm 27, David expresses his trust in God as his light, salvation, and stronghold. He asks who he should fear with such confidence in our Lord. As believers, we can do the same.

    Insights into Fear

    Fear is a natural human response to uncertainty and danger. However, when we let fear take hold, it can lead us down a path of doubt and despair. In 1 John 4:18, we’re reminded that God does not give us evil things to suffer, but rather gives us strength and hope in the midst of trial.

    When we focus on our fears rather than our faith, we open ourselves up to feelings of inadequacy and powerlessness. But when we fix our eyes on Jesus, we discover a different narrative – one of courage, resilience, and victory over fear.

    Practical Applications

    So how can we cultivate trust in God when the world around us seems dark and uncertain? Here are a few practical steps to consider:

    1. Practice Spiritual Discernment

    As believers, we have access to spiritual discernment through the Holy Spirit. When faced with fear or uncertainty, take time to pray and seek God’s guidance. Ask Him to reveal His truth in your situation, and trust that He is working everything out for your good (Romans 8:28).

    2. Focus on God’s Presence

    When we focus on our fears rather than our faith, we can lose sight of God’s presence in our lives. Take time to reflect on the promises of Scripture and remember that you are never alone. God is with you, even when it feels like He’s not (Deuteronomy 31:6).

    3. Surround Yourself with Believers

    When we surround ourselves with people who share our faith, we’re reminded that we’re not alone in this journey. Seek out community and connection with fellow believers – it can be a powerful antidote to fear and uncertainty.

    Reflection / Challenge

    • What are some specific fears or uncertainties you’re facing right now? Take time to pray for God’s strength and guidance in these areas.
    • Reflect on times when you’ve trusted God in the midst of tough times. What did you learn from those experiences, and how can you apply those lessons today?
    • Write down three things you trust God with today – no matter how small they may seem. Remember that our faith is not based on what we have or accomplish, but on who He is.

    Prayer / Closing

    Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for being my light and salvation in the darkest of times. Help me to trust You more deeply today, even when fear tries to creep in. Surround me with Your presence and remind me that I am never alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    Call to Action

    If this devotional encouraged you, don’t just scroll on. Subscribe for more devotionals, share a comment about what God is teaching you, or reach out and tell me what you’re reflecting on today. Let’s grow in faith together.

    Sources

    Disclaimer:

    The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.

    Related Posts

    Rate this:

    #1John418 #anxiety #anxietyRelief #believers #BibleStudy #biblicalStudies #challenge #ChristianHope #ChristianLiving #ChristianStrength #comfort #community #copingStrategies #courage #DavidSTrust #depressionSupport #Despair #Deuteronomy316 #devotion #Discernment #doubts #emotionalHealth #emotionalWellness #evilThings #Faith #faithInGod #FaithOverFear #fear #GodSPresence #guidance #HolySpirit #Hope #inadequacy #Jesus #journaling #light #mentalHealth #mentalHealthResources #NIV #peace #powerlessness #praisingGod #prayer #prayerForFear #prayerForGuidance #promisesOfScripture #psalm27 #Psalm271 #reassurance #reflection #resilience #Romans828 #salvation #SatanSTactics #spiritualDiscernment #SpiritualGrowth #spiritualWarfare #strength #stressManagement #stronghold #thankingGod #TheLordIsMyLightAndSalvation #theology #trial #trustInGod #trustingGodInChaos #TrustInGod #uncertainty #Victory #Worship #writingDownPrayers

    #1john418 #anxiety #anxietyrelief #believers #biblestudy #biblicalstudies
  6. Bryan King @[email protected] ·

    Faith Over Fear: Daily Steps to Trust God in Tough Times

    744 words, 4 minutes read time.

    The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1, NIV)

    Introduction

    When tough times come, it’s easy to get caught up in fear and uncertainty. But as Christians, we have a greater option available to us: trusting God in the midst of chaos.

    In Psalm 27, David expresses his trust in God as his light, salvation, and stronghold. He asks who he should fear with such confidence in our Lord. As believers, we can do the same.

    Insights into Fear

    Fear is a natural human response to uncertainty and danger. However, when we let fear take hold, it can lead us down a path of doubt and despair. In 1 John 4:18, we’re reminded that God does not give us evil things to suffer, but rather gives us strength and hope in the midst of trial.

    When we focus on our fears rather than our faith, we open ourselves up to feelings of inadequacy and powerlessness. But when we fix our eyes on Jesus, we discover a different narrative – one of courage, resilience, and victory over fear.

    Practical Applications

    So how can we cultivate trust in God when the world around us seems dark and uncertain? Here are a few practical steps to consider:

    1. Practice Spiritual Discernment

    As believers, we have access to spiritual discernment through the Holy Spirit. When faced with fear or uncertainty, take time to pray and seek God’s guidance. Ask Him to reveal His truth in your situation, and trust that He is working everything out for your good (Romans 8:28).

    2. Focus on God’s Presence

    When we focus on our fears rather than our faith, we can lose sight of God’s presence in our lives. Take time to reflect on the promises of Scripture and remember that you are never alone. God is with you, even when it feels like He’s not (Deuteronomy 31:6).

    3. Surround Yourself with Believers

    When we surround ourselves with people who share our faith, we’re reminded that we’re not alone in this journey. Seek out community and connection with fellow believers – it can be a powerful antidote to fear and uncertainty.

    Reflection / Challenge

    • What are some specific fears or uncertainties you’re facing right now? Take time to pray for God’s strength and guidance in these areas.
    • Reflect on times when you’ve trusted God in the midst of tough times. What did you learn from those experiences, and how can you apply those lessons today?
    • Write down three things you trust God with today – no matter how small they may seem. Remember that our faith is not based on what we have or accomplish, but on who He is.

    Prayer / Closing

    Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for being my light and salvation in the darkest of times. Help me to trust You more deeply today, even when fear tries to creep in. Surround me with Your presence and remind me that I am never alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    Call to Action

    If this devotional encouraged you, don’t just scroll on. Subscribe for more devotionals, share a comment about what God is teaching you, or reach out and tell me what you’re reflecting on today. Let’s grow in faith together.

    Sources

    Disclaimer:

    The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.

    Related Posts

    Rate this:

    #1John418 #anxiety #anxietyRelief #believers #BibleStudy #biblicalStudies #challenge #ChristianHope #ChristianLiving #ChristianStrength #comfort #community #copingStrategies #courage #DavidSTrust #depressionSupport #Despair #Deuteronomy316 #devotion #Discernment #doubts #emotionalHealth #emotionalWellness #evilThings #Faith #faithInGod #FaithOverFear #fear #GodSPresence #guidance #HolySpirit #Hope #inadequacy #Jesus #journaling #light #mentalHealth #mentalHealthResources #NIV #peace #powerlessness #praisingGod #prayer #prayerForFear #prayerForGuidance #promisesOfScripture #psalm27 #Psalm271 #reassurance #reflection #resilience #Romans828 #salvation #SatanSTactics #spiritualDiscernment #SpiritualGrowth #spiritualWarfare #strength #stressManagement #stronghold #thankingGod #TheLordIsMyLightAndSalvation #theology #trial #trustInGod #trustingGodInChaos #TrustInGod #uncertainty #Victory #Worship #writingDownPrayers

    #1john418 #anxiety #anxietyrelief #believers #biblestudy #biblicalstudies
  7. Emma Morgen @[email protected] ·

    It's soon the end of the year... What visions are sharpening your focus for 2026?
    A year of 1 - beginning a new cycle of numerology for the next 9 years... Inspiration, Seeds, Fresh Start ~

    emmamorgen.com/en/livewebinar/

    2 More Sessions each Wednesday before Solstice ! To transform energies as we finish this year and begin the new 💚

    #Vulnerability #Sharp #Discernment #Jungle #Vision #Night #Day #Skills #Breathwork #Meditation #Presence #Matses #Authenticity #Community #Ancestral #Wisdom #Nature

    #vulnerability #sharp #discernment #jungle #vision #night
  8. lobster 🦞 @[email protected] ·

    Dear Friends of all that right (not right or left wing you muppet) with the world, 🦞

    I love     #reading:

    3.     #favourite things or #preferably more
    -     #bloomscrolling
    101 - pet peeves
    #Dead and #Dad jokes
    #food #eaten or #eating or #preparing
    #different #cultures
    #cooperative #ventures
    punk     #lo-tech
    #hacking our own
    #improving #health
    dealing with     #hardship
    spiritual     #discernment
    #crazy #ideas that make #sense
    4K     #virtual #strolls, without commentary

    So many people have nothing     #worth being disempowered by. Always the way. So find the #happy, #positive, #solutions. The #quieter, #maturity. The #experienced help, ally, direction. I do every day. It is the most #worthwhile thing I can do and #share ...

    #reading #favourite #preferably #bloomscrolling #dead #dad