BCIC Discernment Sample

Discernment The God-given ability to understand why things happen

“But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” I SAMUEL 16:7

THE JERUSALEM CHURCH CONSULTS THE SCRIPTURES “But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.”

ACTS 15:5–6

SPIRITUAL GIFT:

BIBLICAL CHARACTER ILLUSTRATED CURRICULUM Illustrated in Scripture, Illustrated in Life

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CONTENTS

Biblical Character Illustrated Curriculum Illustrated in Scripture “The testimony of the Lord is sure, making

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wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7b). Biblical

Introduction

character is illustrated in this curriculum

2 How to Use This Curriculum

through both artwork and lessons from

3 Goals and Objectives

the lives of people in God’s Word. We most

4 Character Quality Overview

often benefit from the positive examples

5 Discernment in Scripture

of faithful men and women. “For whatso-

6 Lesson 1: Distinguish between Right and Wrong 7 Bible Story: The Jerusalem Church Consults the Scriptures 8 Memory Verse: Hebrews 5:14 9 Activity: Dividing Right from Wrong

10 Lesson 2:

Look beneath the Surface

11 Bible Story: God’s Unexpected Choice for a King 12 Memory Verse: I Samuel 16:7 13 Activity: Cause and Effect Tree

14 Lesson 3:

Keep from Judging Hastily

15 Bible Story: Solomon’s Wisdom Is Put to the Test 16 Memory Verse: Proverbs 18:13 17 Activity: Crossword Puzzle

18 Lesson 4:

Not Repeat Mistakes

19 Bible Story: Samson Strays from God’s Call 20 Memory Verse: I Corinthians 10:1 21 Activity: The Story of Farmer Brown

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Additional Resources

ever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Romans 15:4). There were also people in the Bible who are representations of poor character, and we can learn from their lives as well. “Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted” (I Corinthians 10:6). We would be wise to learn from the testimonies God has given us in Scripture.

Illustrated in Life “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). Hearing the Word of God causes us to grow in faith.

This curriculum offers many practical applications of God’s Word to everyday life. “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). As God enables us to act in faith, our lives as believers will illustrate His character to others.

22 Discernment GEMs 23 Journal and GEM

Mine

24 Hymn Sheet Music: “More About Jesus” 25 H ymn History: “More About Jesus”

by Eliza E. Hewitt 26 Explaining Salvation to a Child 27 Reproducible Coloring Pages 31 Recommended Resources

The character of God is illustrated in Scripture.

May it also be illustrated in our lives.

Character Quality Overview What Is Discernment?

Read aloud and discuss what discernment means and how it applies to life.

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he operational definition of discernment is “the God-given ability to understand why things happen.” You may be dealing with circumstances in your life or in the world around you that you are trying to understand. What is the cause of such a devastating hurricane? Why would a loved one get cancer? Science may explain the happenings of the physical world based on universal laws of nature, but the purposes of God behind those events can only be understood, or discerned, by His Spirit. God, in His omniscience, has deeper reasons for each circumstance and is working to fulfill His plans. As the Holy Spirit guides you as you read and study His Word, you will begin to grasp the deeper things of God. (See I Corinthians 2:10–16.)

Having the mind of Christ (or thinking in accordance with Scripture) is the first necessary requirement for learning discernment.

Lacking discernment leads to wrong judgments. Without knowing the facts, an undiscerning person often You may think that you see arrives at incorrect conclua situation clearly, but only with discernment from the sions. Someone who makes Lord will you be able to have rash judgments about the perspective necessary to others often forms opinions draw accurate conclusions. about them based only on what he sees on the surface.

He is critical of others when he sees their faults, and he fails to realize that the failures he reacts to in

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others are often identical to his own! Jesus alluded to this attitude when He spoke about being quick to see a speck in another’s eye while overlooking the plank that was in one’s own eye. (See Matthew 7:3–5.)

A person who lacks discernment is focused more on faultfinding and finger-pointing. He fails to try to see “below the surface” to understand another’s situation or seek ways to help him. Instead of judging others, seek to understand A judgmental person blames others them, pray for without taking the time to discern what them, and help underlying factors should be considered. them as God leads and enables you.

Not only can we misjudge people, but we can also judge situations wrongly. Jesus pointed out this problem to those who came to Him asking that He prove He was Who He claimed to be. (See Matthew 16:2–3.) While rightly discerning some factors, they failed to see the greater event. Similarly, when you are disciplined by your dad, do you accuse him of not loving you? Or do you discern the reasons why he is correcting you and the greater purpose for his discipline? When you have a conflict with your friend, do you blame her, or do you ask God to show you your fault in the dispute? When devastating tragedy occurs, people often ask, “Why did God let this happen?” As you allow God to teach you His perspective, you will begin to see His hand in the situations around you and develop discernment.

Discernment in Scripture

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s you read and study God’s Word, you will see Who He is!

Be willing to be changed by Him so Christ can be seen through your life and others will glorify God.

DISCERNMENT KEY VERSE “But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” I SAMUEL 16:7

The Character of God

Discernment in My Life

We see examples of discernment in God’s character in the following ways:

Now let’s examine some ways God wants us to live out discernment daily.

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God is the source of all wisdom and knowledge needed for discernment.

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(See Proverbs 22:3, Colossians 3:25.)

(See Daniel 2:20–22.)

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God is able to see beyond man’s outward actions to the thoughts and intentions of his heart.

(See Genesis 6:5, Hebrews 4:12.)

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Before judgment, God establishes the facts about a person’s heart.

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(See I Corinthians 2:14–16.)

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How can I discern what is good?

(See I Thessalonians 5:21, I John 4:1.)

(See Isaiah 7:14–15.)

(See Matthew 23:25–26, Psalm 51:6.)

Jesus could discern the true motivations behind the questions He was asked.

Jesus helped Peter identify the consequences of having violent and destructive reactions.

(See Matthew 26:52.)

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How has God enabled me to understand His ways?

Jesus knew to reject evil and choose the good.

(See John 8:3–11, Matthew 22:17–22.)

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Instead of me making superficial changes to my appearance, what inward changes does God want to make in my heart?

(See I Corinthians 4:4–5.)

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Before making a decision, do I thoroughly consider all the consequences that could result?

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How can I keep from rushing to judgment?

(See James 1:19–20.)

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Do I carefully examine what I am taught to be certain it agrees with the Word of God? (See Acts 17:10–11.)

The Holy Spirit freely gives the believer understanding into the deeper things of God.

How is my spiritual growth affected if I do not give heed to God’s Word and learn to use it skillfully?

(See I Corinthians 2:10–12.)

(See Hebrews 5:11–14.)

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GOD ENABLES ME TO

Distinguish between Right and Wrong

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INTRODUCTION

ave you ever seen cashiers hold money up to the

light? They are trained to examine the money and deter­ mine whether it is real or fake. In the light, the cashiers can see details on a genuine bill that could not be reproduced on a counterfeit. Did you know that God’s Word is a light, too? You can learn to distinguish right from wrong by using the light of God’s Word. Because God’s Word is truth, as you study your Bible, your spirit will begin to “spot” the counterfeits, or lies, that are around you daily. Be alert to subtle messages that come through music, entertainment, and conversations.

Discuss them as a family.

The surest way to grow in discernment is to depend on God’s Word. “The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple” (Psalm 119:130).

The Jerusalem Church Consults the Scriptures

DISCERNMENT The God-given ability to understand why things happen 6

BIBLE STORY

LESSON 1

The Jerusalem Church Consults the Scriptures

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Distinguish between Right and Wrong

he Apostle Peter would never have thought of preaching to Gentiles! However, God had other plans. God used a vision and a visit to a Roman centurion named Cornelius to show Peter that Jesus died for all people. Now Peter knew that anyone—even non-Jews—who believed on Christ could have forgiveness of sins. At first, the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem were wary of welcoming these “unclean” Gentiles into the Church. However, after hearing Peter’s testimony, the Jewish believers grasped God’s plan and praised Him for the new converts. In Antioch, about 300 miles from Jerusalem, a church was established. This specific church included both Jewish and Gentile believers. Paul and Barnabas were sent by this church on a missionary

journey. After many months and many miles, the two men returned to the church. They reported that numerous Gentile souls had been saved because God “had opened the door faith unto the Gentiles” (Acts 14:27).

However, certain Pharisees who had also trusted in Christ were greatly concerned. They believed that in order to be saved, adherence to the Law of Moses was required. These Pharisees approached the church in Antioch with an ultimatum for the new Gentile believers. What were these Pharisees demanding the new believers to do? How would the church leadership discern if their demand was right or wrong?

1. What were certain men from Judaea teaching the new Gentile converts in Antioch? (See Acts 15:1.)

When listening to differing perspectives, how do you discern which information is most valid?

(See Acts 17:11.)

What do some people today believe they must do to earn salvation? What does God’s Word say is needed? (See Ephesians 2:8–9.)

2. Did Paul and Barnabas agree with these Judaeans?

To whom were they sent regarding the dispute?

(See Acts 15:2.)

When you have difficulty distinguishing between right and wrong, to whom can you go for wise counsel? (See Proverbs 1:7–8.)

3. When this sect of Pharisees opposed Paul and Barnabas’s testimony, what did the apostles and elders do? (See Acts 15:4–6.)

Whenever someone has an opposing viewpoint, do you calmly take time to hear them before reaching a solution? (See Proverbs 17:14.)

4. How did Peter refute the Pharisees’ demands to keep the Law? (See Acts 15:9–10.) Did Paul and Barnabas confirm his testimony? (See Acts 15:12.)

Let’s read the Bible story in Acts 15:1–31 and then discuss the following questions.

5. What did James refer to when seeking God’s wisdom in discerning the truth? (See Acts 15:15–17.)

How does the Bible help you correctly understand and settle questions, doubts, and problems?

(See John 17:17, II Timothy 3:16–17.)

6. After hearing both sides of the matter, what did the leaders of the Jerusalem church decide was right? (See Acts 15:19–21.)

Why is considering the entire matter important before making a decision? (See James 1:19–20, Proverbs 15:22.)

7. In what ways did the Jerusalem leadership and brethren both confirm and communicate their conclusion? (See Acts 15:22–27.)

How do you respond when your parents make a decision that affects you? (See Hebrews 13:17.)

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Operational Definitions of Character Qualities ALERTNESS vs. Unawareness

ATTENTIVENESS vs. Unconcern

AVAILABILITY vs. Self-Centeredness

BOLDNESS vs. Fearfulness

CAUTIOUSNESS vs. Rashness

COMPASSION vs. Indifference

CONTENTMENT vs. Covetousness

Being aware of that which is taking place around me so that I can have the right response to it

Showing the worth of a person by giving undivided concentration to his words and emotions

Making my own schedule and priorities secondary to the wishes of those I am serving

Confidence that what I have to say or do is true and right and just in the sight of God

Knowing how important right timing is in accomplishing right actions

Investing whatever is necessary to heal the hurts of others

Realizing that God has provided everything I need for my present happiness

Mark 14:38

Hebrews 2:1

Acts 4:29

Proverbs 19:2

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Philippians 2:20–21

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I John 3:17

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I Timothy 6:8

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CREATIVITY vs. Underachievement

DECISIVENESS vs. Double-mindedness

DEFERENCE vs. Rudeness

DEPENDABILITY vs. Inconsistency

DETERMINATION vs. Faintheartedness

DILIGENCE vs. Slothfulness

DISCERNMENT vs. Judgment

Approaching a need, a task, or an idea from a new perspective

The ability to finalize difficult decisions based on the will and ways of God

Limiting my freedom in order not to offend the tastes of those God has called me to serve

Fulfilling what I consented to do even if it means unexpected sacrifice

Purposing to accomplish God’s goals in God’s time regardless of the opposition

The God-given ability to understand why things happen

James 1:5

Romans 14:21

Visualizing each task as a special assignment from the Lord and using all my energies to accomplish it

Romans 12:2

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Psalm 15:4

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II Timothy 4:7–8

Colossians 3:23

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I Samuel 16:7

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DISCRETION vs. Simplemindedness

ENDURANCE vs. Giving Up

ENTHUSIASM vs. Apathy

FAITH vs. Unbelief

FLEXIBILITY vs. Resistance

FORGIVENESS vs. Rejection

GENEROSITY vs. Stinginess

The ability to avoid words, actions, and attitudes that could result in undesirable consequences

The inward strength to withstand stress to accomplish God’s best

Fervently expressing with my soul the joy of my spirit

Visualizing what God intends to do in a given situation and acting in harmony with it

Not setting my affections on ideas or plans that could be changed by God or others

Clearing the record of those who have wronged me and allowing God to love them through me

Realizing that all I have belongs to God and using it for His purposes

Hebrews 11:1

Colossians 3:2

Ephesians 4:32

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Proverbs 22:3

Galatians 6:9

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I Thessalonians 5:16, 19

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II Corinthians 9:6

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GENTLENESS vs. Harshness

GRATEFULNESS vs. Unthankfulness

HOSPITALITY vs. Loneliness

HUMILITY vs. Pride

INITIATIVE vs. Unresponsiveness

JOYFULNESS vs. Self-Pity

JUSTICE vs. Corruption

Showing personal care and concern in meeting the needs of others

Making known to God and others in what ways they have benefited my life

Cheerfully sharing food, shelter, and spiritual refreshment with those God brings into my life

Recognizing and doing what needs to be done before I am asked to do it

Delighting in fellowship with the Lord regardless of my circumstances

Personal responsibility to uphold God’s unchanging laws

I Corinthians 4:7

Hebrews 13:2

Recognizing that without the help of God and others my achievements in life would not have been possible

Romans 12:21

Psalm 16:11

Micah 6:8

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I Thessalonians 2:7

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James 4:6

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LOVE vs. Selfishness

LOYALTY vs. Unfaithfulness

MEEKNESS vs. Anger

OBEDIENCE vs. Willfulness

ORDERLINESS vs. Disorganization

PATIENCE vs. Restlessness

PERSUASIVENESS vs. Contentiousness

Giving to others’ basic needs without having as my motive personal reward

Using difficult times to demonstrate my commitment to God and to those He has called me to serve

Yielding my personal rights and expectations to God

Eagerly yielding to God’s Word rather than following my own will

Preparing myself and my surroundings so I will achieve the greatest efficiency

Guiding vital truths around another’s mental roadblocks

Psalm 62:5

II Corinthians 10:5

I Corinthians 14:40

Accepting a difficult situation from God without giving Him a deadline to remove it

I Corinthians 13:3

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John 15:13

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Romans 5:3–4

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II Timothy 2:24

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PUNCTUALITY vs. Tardiness

RESOURCEFULNESS vs. Wastefulness

RESPONSIBILITY vs. Unreliability

REVERENCE vs. Disrespect

SECURITY vs. Anxiety

SELF-CONTROL vs. Self-Indulgence

SENSITIVITY vs. Callousness

Showing high esteem for other people and their time

Wise use of that which others would normally overlook or discard

Knowing and doing what both God and others are expecting from me

Luke 16:10

Romans 14:12

Structuring my life around that which is eternal and cannot be destroyed or taken away

Instant obedience to the initial promptings of God’s Spirit

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Awareness of how God is working through the people and events in my life to produce the character of Christ in me

Exercising my senses so I can perceive the true spirit and emotions of those around me

Proverbs 23:17–18

John 6:27

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Galatians 5:24–25

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Romans 12:15

SINCERITY vs. Hypocrisy

THOROUGHNESS vs. Incompleteness

THRIFTINESS vs. Extravagance

TOLERANCE vs. Prejudice

TRUTHFULNESS vs. Deception

VIRTUE vs. Impurity

WISDOM vs. Natural Inclinations

Eagerness to do what is right, with transparent motives

Knowing what factors will diminish the effectiveness of my work or words if neglected

Not letting myself or others spend that which is not necessary

Acceptance of others as unique expressions of specific character qualities in varying degrees of maturity

Earning future trust by accurately reporting past facts

The moral excellence and purity of spirit that radiate from my life as I obey God’s Word

Seeing and responding to life’s situations from God’s frame of reference

G Philippians 2:2

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I Peter 1:22

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T P— Prophet

Proverbs 18:15

S— Server

Luke 16:11

G T—Teacher

E— Exhorter

Ephesians 4:25

P G— Giver

II Peter 1:3–5

O— Organizer

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Proverbs 9:10

M— Mercy

Revealing the character of Christ through the stories in His Word.

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