What if discernment was not a rare gift for a few spiritual experts, but a normal part of life as children of God?

In John 5, Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath. The religious leaders are offended, but Jesus gives us a remarkable window into his life with the Father:

“The Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing” (John 5:19).

That is not only a statement about Jesus’ authority and relationship with God. It is also an invitation into the kind of life he lived — a life attentive to the Father, responsive to the Spirit, and ready to join God’s work in the world.

Imagine being that sensitive to the Spirit. As naturally aware of God’s prompting as you are of your own thoughts throughout the day. What difference would that make? To your obedience? To your relationships? To the way you notice people, speak words of encouragement, respond to needs, pray, forgive, serve, and take the next faithful step?

This is not wishful thinking, it is how God invites us to live. It is also key to our calling as a church. We are not simply trying to run programs, fill rosters, or make good decisions. We are learning to discern where God is already at work, and to join him there.

This week, each day, let’s practise a prayer like this: “Father, open my heart to what you are doing. Spirit, help me hear what you are saying. Jesus, give me courage to join you.” Then live like God is answering that prayer. And when God shows you what he is doing, step out and obey.

In Him,

Jason

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash