DISCERNMENT

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Discernment— This gift equips one to know instinctively what is going on beyond the surface, whether of a situation or an individual. Those with the gift of discernment have the ability to determine genuineness or phoniness. An example of leading through discernment would be a person judging that someone wants to be in a position of leadership out of a wrong motive (1 Jn. 4:1-3).
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Individuals with the gift of Discernment can provide valuable insight and guidance in church ministries in various ways. Their ability to perceive what isn't obvious to others can be pivotal in many aspects of church life. Here are several roles or areas where the gift of discernment can be particularly useful:

1. Counseling: Those with discernment can help in pastoral counseling by distinguishing underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent. They can provide guidance that aligns with a deeper understanding of a person's struggles or intentions.
2. Leadership Advisory: Advising church leaders in decision-making processes, helping to identify the motives of people, ensuring that decisions are made based on genuine need and spiritual wisdom rather than superficial reasons.
3. Conflict Resolution: Assisting in mediating disputes within the church, discerning the root causes of conflicts, and helping to bring about a resolution that aligns with Christian principles.
4. Spiritual Warfare: Being part of prayer teams that focus on intercession and spiritual warfare, discerning spiritual forces at play and guiding prayer efforts accordingly.
5. Ministry Teams Evaluation: Participating in the evaluation of ministry activities and programs, offering insights into what is spiritually fruitful versus what may need reevaluation or discontinuation.
6. Member Integration: Assisting in the process of integrating new church members, discerning the best fit for their spiritual gifts within the body of the church, and identifying any areas of concern.
7. Worship Teams: Serving on worship teams to discern the spiritual atmosphere, guiding the flow of worship in a way that is sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
8. Mission and Outreach: Guiding mission and outreach programs with an awareness of cultural and spiritual dynamics that could impact the effectiveness of the church's work in a community.
9. Youth and Young Adults Ministry: Helping to guide young people, particularly in discerning God's will for their lives, and providing insight into the challenges and influences they face.
10. Security Team: Working with church security to discern potential threats or disturbances that could disrupt church services or activities, ensuring a safe environment for worship.
11. Mentorship Programs: Participating in or leading mentorship and discipleship programs, discerning the needs and spiritual maturity of mentees to provide appropriate guidance and growth opportunities.
12. Ethical Guidance: Offering input on ethical matters that the church faces, discerning the most Christ-like approach to complex issues in the modern world.
13. Charitable Efforts: Overseeing or advising on charitable giving and service projects, discerning where the church's resources could be most effectively and righteously used.

By serving in these ways, individuals with the gift of discernment can help ensure that the church moves forward in unity, truth, and spiritual integrity, helping to guard against deception and ensuring that the church's mission remains pure and directed by the Holy Spirit.