Approve all things, hold fast to the proper, 1 Thessalonians 5:21
As we use the new mind that we have in Christ—a mind that is framed on the things above and perceives things as they truly are—we are able to test all situations to discern what is the desirous will of God for us (Romans 12:2). As sons—those placed in a position of maturity—we must train our senses to discern what is wrong from what is proper, consistently holding to what is proper.
There are two words in Scripture translated as “evil.” In relation to unrighteous and sinful actions, these can be either wrong or malignant. “Wrong” refers to actions that are deficient in character, while “malignant” describes wrongdoing that spreads to others. When we hold fast to what is proper, neither aspect of evil will be manifested in our lives.