Discernment With Our Freedoms in Christ

By Ashton McGraw & Chris Jaeger In The Light of Truth – A Podcast by Illuminate the Truth.

Welcome to In The Light of Truth, a podcast where biblical truth meets real life. Whether you’re new to the Bible or have studied it for years, this is a space for honest conversations about the struggles, joys, and peace we experience as followers of Christ. Walking with God isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. Let’s grow together in the light of truth.

Having Discernment With Our Freedoms in Christ

“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.— 1 Corinthians 10:23–24

Walking in Freedom in Christ—But with Wisdom

As followers of Christ, we’ve been given incredible freedom—freedom from sin, from shame, and from the burdens of the law. But with that freedom comes the need for discernment. In Episode 5 of In the Light of Truth, we sat down to talk about what it means to exercise discernment in the gray areas of life, and how the Holy Spirit helps us walk wisely as we honor Christ.

Whether you’re new to the Bible or have been following Jesus for years, this conversation is for anyone wrestling with questions like:

• Is this activity helpful or harmful to my walk with God?

• Am I glorifying Christ, or just justifying my choices?

• How can I love others well through what I do—and don’t—partake in?

  
  

Conviction ≠ Condemnation

In this episode, Chris shared how the Lord personally led her to give up having a glass of wine every night—not because it was a sin in itself, but because the Spirit was asking for more intimacy and surrender in that area of her life.

It wasn’t about legalism—it was about listening to God’s conviction, not ignoring or excusing it. When she finally let go, God not only gave her peace but filled the space with deeper fellowship, purpose, and clarity.

That’s the beauty of discernment. It’s not about restriction. It’s about inviting the Lord into every area of our lives—even the ones we try to hold tightly.

Asking the Right Questions

A big part of spiritual growth is learning to ask better questions about how we live:

• Is this profitable?

• Is this glorifying to God?

• Is this edifying to me or those around me?

• Am I sowing into the Spirit—or into the flesh?

  
  

As Ashton shared, it can be something as simple as the time we spend on social media, shopping habits, or the content we consume. The questions we ask ourselves can shape how we guard our hearts and grow in holiness.

One sister in Christ shared a powerful question:

“Is this glorifying what God loves—or is it glorifying what God hates?”

That’s a tough but transformative question.

Practical Wisdom from Philippians 4:8

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable… think about these things.”— Philippians 4:8

This verse gives us a practical filter for evaluating what we allow into our lives. Are the things we're watching, reading, or participating in building us up—or slowly breaking us down? It’s not about living in fear. It’s about living in alignment with what is true, noble, pure, and lovely—because God cares about the details.

Guarding Our Hearts in a Loud Culture

From TV shows and music to daily habits and business decisions, the world normalizes so much that contradicts God’s Word. While we may have the freedom to participate, not everything is beneficial. Discernment is learning the difference.

And sometimes, it just takes a shift in perspective—“Would I be comfortable doing this if Jesus were sitting next to me?” That question alone can change everything.

Let’s Keep Asking, Listening, and Growing

Discernment doesn’t mean perfection—it means constantly going back to the Lord, asking Him to examine our hearts, and being open to letting go of what’s holding us back. And the good news? When we’re willing, He makes it easier than we thought. He fills the gaps. He brings peace. And He always draws us closer.

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”— 1 Corinthians 10:31

We Want to Hear From You!

Have you ever felt God nudging you to give something up—even when it wasn’t “technically” a sin? How have you learned to listen to those nudges?

We’d love to hear your stories. Share a comment, send us a message, or come visit us at Illuminate the Truth Bookstore in downtown Fargo. You’re always welcome.

Let’s keep growing—in the light of truth.

🎧 Listen to Episode 5: "Having Discernment with of Freedoms in Christ" on Spotify. https://open.spotify.com/episode/08LKeuR2wCobUvnY0H4eeV?si=zqXlhEgDT4mFM5cqqLvsKA

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