What Does the Bible Say About Discernment — In Biblical Context
Discernment is the God-given ability to distinguish truth from error, good from evil, and God's will from human wisdom—it is developed through Scripture and prayer.
Discernment is the God-given ability to distinguish truth from error, good from evil, and God's will from human wisdom—it is developed through Scripture and prayer.
"But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." — Hebrews 5:14 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
Biblical discernment involves the ability to evaluate situations, teachings, and spirits accurately. Hebrews 5:14 describes mature believers as those 'who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.' Solomon famously asked God for an 'understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad' (1 Kings 3:9). Paul prayed that believers' love would 'abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment' (Philippians 1:9). First John 4:1 commands believers to 'try the spirits whether they are of God,' since false prophets have gone out into the world. Discernment is cultivated through deep engagement with Scripture, prayer, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, Hebrews 5:14, sits inside Hebrews 5. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."
Supporting Passages
"Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world."
"Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad."
Explore this question from another angle
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
What Is the Doctrine of Election?
Theology & Doctrine
What Is Covenant Theology?
Theology & Doctrine
What Is Anthropology in Theology?
Theology & Doctrine
Bible Verses About Spiritual Discernment
10 curated KJV verses
Proverbs 14:12 Commentary
In-depth study • Wisdom & Discernment
Psalm 62:10 Commentary
In-depth study • Wisdom & Discernment
Keep Going
Continue Exploring Scripture
You've found one resource — here are more ways to go deeper into God's Word.
Today's Verse
Start each day with a hand-picked KJV verse and reflection.
Verses by Topic
Find what the Bible says about love, anxiety, strength, and 500+ more topics.
Bible Miracles
Discover the signs and wonders of God recorded in Scripture.
Angels & Spiritual Warfare
Angels, demons, and the armor of God — what the KJV really teaches about the unseen battle.
Bible Genealogies & Family Trees
Visual KJV family trees — the line of Jesus, the sons of Noah, the twelve tribes, and more.
Women of the Bible
Eve, Sarah, Ruth, Esther, Mary — the matriarchs, prophetesses, queens, and disciples of Scripture.