Gifts Given for Sanctification
Gifts given for sanctification begin the changes which transform us to resemble Jesus while we still live here on earth. The first one we’ll look at is discernment.

Why is that important?

According to Webster’s Dictionary, discernment, among a group of synonyms, stresses accuracy in the quality of being able to grasp and comprehend what is obscure. Some people conceal their motives and intentions. Discernment, one of the gifts given for sanctification, cuts through that.
Of course, one of the words behind discernment is discern, to see or understand the difference between right and wrong.

Peter and Paul both used discernment in the days of the early church. Peter, while interacting with Ananias and Sapphira, and Paul, with the sorcerer Simon. In these incidents the apostles called out liars, whom God then disciplined in sudden and shocking ways.
By responding with discernment, one of the gifts given for sanctification, the apostles protected the early church from infiltration by evil. This demonstrated God’s power and majesty to new converts.

Is using discernment always so dramatic?

Not necessarily. It’s also helpful when our friends, family members and acquaintances try to downplay their stresses and sorrows. Discernment then helps us see who needs comforting or encouragement, and helps us choose words and actions that suit eacb situation best.
If you’re willing, please share in the comments about a time when discernment helped you in a tense or stressful moment.