The Phaneroo Devotion: Discernment through the Word
Apostle Grace Lubega
1 John 4:1 (NKJV): “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
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The Word of God is the greatest tool that the Father has given us for the discernment of spirits. A prophet, pastor, mentor, or spiritual authority is not above the Word when it comes to discernment.
The Bible gives us an interesting account in Matthew 16. The Scriptures tell us how the Lord began to speak to His disciples about His impending death and how He would rise again. Peter, disturbed by these words, rebuked Him and said that such things were far from Him and would not befall Him.
In response, Jesus said to him, “Get behind Me, Satan!” (Matthew 16:23).
Peter spoke in a manner that many would have interpreted as love. He was genuine in his concern and sincere in his desire that Jesus would not suffer those things. Yet, in that very moment, it was the devil speaking through Peter. Because Jesus was the Word made flesh, He could discern that the spirit behind Peter’s words was not of God.
This is a lesson to each of us as believers. When you receive counsel, direction, prophecy, or instruction from people in your life, you must test it against the Word. Not every word spoken with concern is of God. Not every instruction that sounds loving is from the Spirit. Not every good intention carries the wisdom of heaven.
The Word knows how to divide soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It exposes the thoughts and intents of the heart. It goes beyond appearance, emotion, and human sincerity to reveal the spirit behind what is being said.
By the Word, when deception, darkness, and the works of the enemy come wrapped in love, hope, sympathy, or goodness, you are able to unveil them for what they truly are and make the right decisions. Hallelujah!
FURTHER STUDY: Hebrews 4:12; Psalm 119:105
GOLDEN NUGGET: When you receive counsel, direction, prophecy, or instruction from people in your life, you must test it against the Word. Not every word spoken with concern is of God. Not every instruction that sounds loving is from the Spirit. Not every good intention carries the wisdom of heaven.
PRAYER: Father, I thank You for the gift of Your Word. Your Word is my light. You open my eyes to recognise what is of You and what is not. I am free from deception even when it comes clothed in concern or sympathy. Your Word dwells richly in me and by it I walk in accuracy, wisdom, and spiritual clarity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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