(1 John 4:1) “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God”
The Word of God reminds us in 1 John 4:1: “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” This is not a suggestion, but a safeguard. The enemy knows how to disguise himself as an angel of light. He knows Scripture, and he knows how to twist it. But the Spirit of Truth within you will never contradict the Word of God.
Remember the man of God in 1 Kings 13. The Lord gave him a clear instruction: Do not eat or drink in that place. Yet another prophet came, claiming a word from the Lord, and persuaded him to do the very thing God had commanded him not to. Though the elder prophet seemed trustworthy, though he carried the mantle of experience, his words were not aligned with what God had already spoken. The man of God allowed honor for man to outweigh obedience to God—and it cost him his life.
Child of God, honor and respect are godly virtues, but they are never to replace obedience to the voice of the Lord. No matter how seasoned, wise, or prophetic another may appear, the Word of the Lord to you must remain your anchor. If God has spoken, hold fast. If you are unsure, return to Him in prayer. It is safer to cling to what He first spoke than to be swayed by voices—even well-meaning ones—that could lead you astray.
The Lord in His mercy will always guide those who choose obedience. Even if you miss a detail, your desire to honor His voice first will protect and realign your steps.
So test the spirits. Weigh every word. Stand firm in the truth. And above all, trust the Shepherd’s voice, for He said, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27).
