Taking a Look at 1 John

“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.”- 1 John 4:1-3 New Living Translation 

            John cautions the people to not believe everything someone says just because they say it’s from the Lord. This is where the gift of discernment comes into play. The Holy Spirit within can guide you into all things that are Godly. The thing we must realize is that anyone can say anything about anything at any time. It’s very important to know the source of the statement. Religiously speaking, what does the individual believe? Who do they put their faith in? There is a place for prophecy and words of wisdom and knowledge in God’s world, but not knowing the truth from a lie can be dangerous business. Does that being said match the word of God? Are they committed to a body of believers? Are they living for themselves or living for God? Is there fruit growing out of their ministries?

            Speaking a word from God is very serious business. To speak for him is to have the confidence and boldness to let your voice be heard at times in corporate settings; words that are straight from the mind of Almighty God. And he trusts you enough to present the word(s) without drama or a show. God is to be respected and viewed upon with awe.  

            Take note of those who profess to speak for the Lord. Do they have a legitimate air of humility or are they putting on an air of importance. These are all things we can spot, not with a judgmental eye, but the eye of someone who is seeking a ripe, sweet melon as women do in the grocery store. We must be fruit inspectors, not judges. God alone judges justly and fairly, yet with a necessary level of compassion. Be on guard for those who would seek to devour your soul. Know who you are in Christ and be careful where you go, what you see and what you hear.  Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing! rlkeller

Resource: Life Application Study Bible.