Guarding Ourselves Against Spiritual Deceit

“But test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21).

In a world flooded with information from countless sources, there is no shortage of opinions. It has become increasingly challenging to mentally sift through all we hear and see daily. The heightened presence of technology has allowed platforms like social media, television, music, video, and podcasts to offer a multitude of perspectives, many driven by underlying agendas to lead people away from foundational truths.

The danger of falling into an echo chamber of propaganda is very real, a trap set by the enemy to create division and distance us from God and His Word. In these times, discernment is critical for believers. The Apostle Paul cautions us in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 about a future where sound doctrine is traded for convenient teachings that echo one’s desires rather than the truth: “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.”

As believers, we must block out the noise of false narratives, focusing instead on the truth of God’s Word. Recognizing false teachings is easier when we study the Bible and know what it says. Its truth is absolute and is not based on popular opinion or what is convenient for the moment. The Bible was written for us and stands the test of time!

Your Call to Action

Dig into the Word of God and be sure what you allow to enter your mind is biblically sound. Deception isn’t always out in the open. Sometimes, it can be cleverly hidden or extremely subtle. If something sounds off, go back to the Bible and fact-check. Pray that God will help you discern things that are not from Him. Here are three additional scriptures to reflect upon:

“The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps” (Proverbs 14:15).

“Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world” (1 John 4:1).

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him” (James 1:5).

Prayer

Our Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unending love and guidance. Help us discern false teaching and mentally process all we hear and see to find Your truth. We want to always be on YOUR side, as we know You are always on ours. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray, Amen!

A Comforting Closure

When we steadfastly anchor ourselves in the truth of Scripture and pray for wisdom to discern rightly, God will guide our thoughts and actions.