Freedom Through Spiritual Discernment

“It was for freedom that Christ has set us free, no longer to be subject to a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1).

Welcome back dear student, sometimes we identify with the underdog, especially if we have walked through similar difficulties. We need discernment to recognise what’s actually going on though. Are old memories deep in the heart triggering a familiar response? Does this line up with what God says – or am I being pulled back into a hole where I was held captive previously?Similarly, in helping others we must ensure that we are not being controlled by their will and desires.

We are to be led only by the Spirit of God (Romans 8:14).

In families, workplaces, or friend’s groups there can be strong personalities who see life only through their lens - and that point of view may be skewed or compromised. Often, they are the ‘it’s my way or the highway’ brigade - but is their way aligning with God’s plan? Are others being drawn into something that has nothing to do with them - expected to support those who won’t surrender to wisdom, or authority?

How you recognise this?

Check out - are you treading on eggshells around this person, or the circumstance that you’ve found yourself in? Because that’s captivity friend. And the danger is – it pulls in others, stunts healing, vision, and growth. Every adult is responsible for confronting our own issues to receive freedom with God’s help. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Truth. That’s why, when we study God’s Word with a mindset to obey Him, we are challenged to go higher – in character, behaviour, and outlook.

Unforgiveness, anger, and resentment can lie hidden inside a person – then surface if someone presses a button, creating mayhem. So, we must ask Holy Spirit to show us how to deal with the root cause and overcome it. You don’t have to tolerate abusive behaviour, but Jesus said we must remit those sins committed, and release forgiveness – for He forgave us (John 20:22)

"And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins” (Mark 11:25).

Whether the culprit is living or dead, forgiveness brings freedom to the one who forgives!If there is a bully calling the shots to your life friend, you need to make a decision. And it’s not to back down or out. Many is the person who gave up on life because of intimidation. Bullies are often strong personalities who were never told NO! It’s not always the case that a person deliberately sets out to make another’s life miserable. Sometimes maybe they’re battling anxiety, or addictions, or even grief that destroyed their hope - and so they lash out. But again, that’s not your problem! Instead, you must determine not to be controlled into pandering to their desires, hurts, or bitterness.

Going back to the underdog. For some who have walked through difficult times, strongholds can build up - creating a ‘victim’ mentality, fostering a view that everyone else is wrong or has done something to cause them hurt – in their eyes. Upon close examination though, a different story may emerge. Because others may not know the full story, they can get swept along with the victim and become poisoned. This leads to isolation and downright deception, opening a door to destruction for all involved. It is the Holy Spirit Who gives us discernment. This is why it’s vital to have a close walk with God. Not everyone is bad; not everything is terrible – in fact life is a beautiful gift to be enjoyed to the fullest!

Jesus paid for our deliverance, and our freedom from sin, death, and hell, so we don’t have to listen to, or be controlled by the enemy’s lies or the fear of others.

No – resist him, steadfast in your faith (1 Peter 5:8-11).

Live free!