Understanding and Discernment in the Bible

Understanding—that practical wisdom which enables us to discern the will of God—is a gift to be sought and received (Proverbs 2:2-6). The Bible invites us to ask God for understanding, which he grants generously to those who seek it with all their heart. The prophet Hosea warns that for lack of knowledge the people perish (Hosea 4:6), underscoring how vital spiritual understanding is. The book of Proverbs promises: "If thou receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; so that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom... then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God" (Proverbs 2:2-6). Understanding is not the same as the accumulation of information: it is the art of knowing what to do with what one knows, of applying the Word to real life. At Gibeon, Solomon asked neither for riches nor long life, but for "an understanding heart to judge thy people" (1 Kings 3:9); and God, delighted by such a request, granted him all the rest as well. Spiritual understanding comes from divine revelation, for "the entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple" (Psalm 119:130). It is led by the Holy Spirit, who guides us into all truth (John 16:13). The apostle Paul prays that believers may be "filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding" (Colossians 1:9), that they may walk worthy of the Lord.