Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. – 1 John 4:1
What is the best part of having a slow internet connection? Nothing! There is no upside to having your computer crawl. For some things in life faster IS better, but not all things do well at high speed.
When the Apostle Paul arrived in Corinth, the Bible says he began reasoning in the Jewish Synagogue from the Old Testament scriptures. His discussions were meant to show religious friends that Jesus of Nazareth was indeed the Christ, God’s Messiah, and they could have salvation in His name. Some of his distinguished listeners considered his teaching carefully and became believers. Other’s perceived Paul’s message as merely a deception and quickly rejected it.
Receiving clear direction from God many times depends on how well you understand His nature. Scripture assures you that God and His character will never change. He is always Holy and Loving. The finished work of His Son Jesus will never change; His sacrifice and resurrection will always be sufficient for salvation. Everything else however is subject to variation. The world and its cultures, governments and leaders, fads and fashion may all be vastly different tomorrow.
In seasons of uncertainty, how will you recognize God’s path for you? Start by searching the scriptures and praying. Regardless of how attractive the world’s message might appear; God never leads contrary to His Word and always brings honor to His Son. Pray for many to join you in the slow lane, relying on careful spiritual discernment to make important decisions—leaving the fast lane open for a good internet connection.
Today’s Verse: 1 John 4:1
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Psalm 119:66-72
66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge,
for I believe in your commandments.
67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I keep your word.
68 You are good and do good;
teach me your statutes.
69 The insolent smear me with lies,
but with my whole heart I keep your precepts;
70 their heart is unfeeling like fat,
but I delight in your law.
71 It is good for me that I was afflicted,
that I might learn your statutes.
72 The law of your mouth is better to me
than thousands of gold and silver pieces.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.