Celebrating Your BaptismSample

Today, we read through 1 John 4, encouraging us to test the spirits. How do we do that? We measure everything we perceive against the word of God.

John says that God is love, and whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in Him. Everything He does is for your benefit and your good.

Our enemy, the devil, comes to steal, kill, and destroy; he cannot create or work something for your ultimate benefit. The only thing the enemy wants to accomplish is the destruction of your relationship with Jesus Christ. Anything he says does not benefit you, but it will sound enticing. It may even sound Biblical.

That’s why spending time in God’s word is so important. In Matthew 4, Jesus is tempted in the desert by Satan, who even uses God’s word to entice Him to sin. Because Jesus knew God’s word, He could resist the devil.

We must measure everything against the Bible and then ask the Lord if it is correct. The message will be evident between God’s word and the Holy Spirit. If we test the spirits and it does not come from God, we will not receive a peaceful feeling from the Holy Spirit. Instead, there will be turmoil. If it is from God, you are promised peace that passes understanding, and He will guard your heart and mind as you abide in Him. John ends the chapter by telling us that perfect love casts out all fear, so as you engage with God, asking Him if what you’re feeling in your spirit is right, His loving spirit will lead you and guide you to the correct answer.

What do you feel God is saying to you? Does it go against God’s word? What does that mean?