======================================================================== SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT by John Henry Jowett ======================================================================== Summary: Spiritual discernment is the skill of catching the voice of the Lord amidst distractions, and obedience is the condition of becoming a saint. Topics: "Spiritual Growth", "Discerning God" Scripture References: 1 Kings 19:12, Psalm 32:8, John 10:27, John 12:26, 1 Corinthians 15:22 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ DESCRIPTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------ John Henry Jowett emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment in recognizing the voice of the Lord amidst life's distractions and challenges. He highlights the need for believers to develop a keen ear to hear God's voice in times of sorrow and joy, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with Him. Obedience to the Lord's call is essential for spiritual growth and sharpening our ability to listen to His voice, resulting in a life filled with vitality and eternal significance. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CONTENT ------------------------------------------------------------------------ "_My sheep hear My voice!_" --JOHN x. 19-30. This is spiritual discernment. We may test our growth in grace by our expertness in detecting the voice of our Lord. It is the skill of the saint to catch "the still small voice" amid all the selfish clamours of the day, and amid the far more subtle callings of the heart. It needs a good ear to catch the voice of the Lord in our sorrows. I think it requires a better ear to discern the voice amid our joys! The twilight helps me to be serious; the noonday glare tends to make me heedless. "_And they follow Me!_" Discernment is succeeded by obedience. That is the one condition of becoming a saint--to follow the immediate call of the Lord. And it is the one condition of becoming an expert listener. Every time I hear the voice, and follow, I sharpen my sense of hearing, and the next time the voice will sound more clear. "_And I give unto them eternal life._" Yes, life is found in the ways of a listening obedience. Every faculty and function will be vitalized when I follow the Lord of life and glory. "In Christ shall all be made alive." My Saviour, graciously give me the listening ear! Give me the obedient heart. ======================================================================== Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/john-henry-jowett/spiritual-discernment/ ========================================================================