We need to remain in the spirit in order to discern between good and evil. Many things and people in our world are good at disguising themselves as ‘angels of light.’ Paul spoke about false apostles who were deceitfully disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. Paul stated that it is no wonder because even Satan can disguise himself as an angel of light. “So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds” (2 Corinthians 11:15). It takes spiritual maturity and discernment to know those who are sent by God and are being led by God. Even people who disguise themselves as ministers of God can lead people astray.
We have been sent into the earth to fulfil a God given assignment and purpose. God assigns people to assist us on our journey and to equip us for his work. God will appoint people during different seasons to help, nurture, support and strengthen us. In the same way, the devil will use people who act as agents to distract us from God’s purpose. The devil is skilled in deception and so are his agents who present as people of God. We have to stay in the spirit and discern who people represent. We have to pray concerning our relationships and always ask God to choose our friends and associates. We ask God to choose our church and Pastor and remain in the spirit to discern when a season has come to an end.
“For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God” (Romans 8:14). We make a lot of mistakes by not consulting the Holy Spirit and can waste precious time with some people with good intentions. There are seasons when we can waste time with people who present as being in need of help. After offering support, we need to step back and re-evaluate some helping relationships. Do people show the willingness to receive help and support or were they sent as a source of distraction? There are many relationships that we have pursued that were not a part of God’s plan for us.
Let us test the spirit, follow the leading of the Holy Spirit and be guided in our decision making. We cannot make decisions out of our desires and quench the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has been sent as our helper, comforter and counsellor. Let us consult God and allow Him to be our guide. “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh”(Galatians 5:16).
A.P.-Y.
Devotional Inspirations 