Study the Bible. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” The Bible is our plumb line for truth, helping to create a framework for what is true so we are able to decipher what is not.

Pray for wisdom. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him” James 1:5. Wisdom originates with God. To grow in wisdom, we must humbly pray and ask God for wisdom. Ask God to help you know how to make decisions, how to discern what is wisdom and what is folly, and to grow in discernment.

Practice discernment. Hebrews 5:14 says, “But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.” It takes constant practice to grow in distinguishing between good and evil, between what is right and almost right. Spiritual maturity takes time. Every decision you make through life, from mundane to life-altering, you practice the art of discernment. Such is the role of the Holy Spirit, reminding us of the words of Jesus and of His character.

Learn from those more mature in the faith. Paul wrote to the church in Corinth, saying, “Imitate me, as I imitate Christ” 1 Corinthians 11:1. There is a wealth of knowledge and wisdom from those who have followed Christ longer than we have. When trying to discern between what is true and what is false or when trying to make a decision that will honor God, seek counsel from those who have practiced discernment much longer than you have. Ask them to teach you how and why they counsel you as they do.