Living Watchful
From Watchman Writings — preserved by Soldiers for Christ.
1 John 4:1 (NKJV): "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world."
1 John 4:2-3 (NKJV): "By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God."
Scripture repeatedly warns believers not to seek guidance from mediums, occult practices, or spiritual forces apart from God. Such practices open the door to deception. Followers of Christ are called to test every spirit and to seek wisdom through the Word of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Not every spiritual claim comes from God, so believers must turn away from occult or deceptive practices and test all things by Scripture. As we abide in Christ, He keeps us in truth and guards us from what only appears to be light.
Biblical discernment is not suspicion for its own sake. It is loving faithfulness to Christ and His Word in the middle of confusion (See glossary: Discernment).
Acts 17:11 (NKJV): "These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so."
When teachings or spiritual claims arise, believers are called to examine them by Scripture, exalt Jesus Christ, and remain rooted in sound doctrine.
Scripture also warns that deceptive influences and false teachers will arise, so the church must remain anchored in Christ and in the truth of God's Word. Through prayerful discernment, believers are guarded from error and strengthened to walk faithfully together.
Testing Spiritual Claims by the Word of God
Scripture warns believers not to receive every spiritual claim without discernment. We are told, “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God” (1 John 4:1). For that reason, the Church must not measure spiritual activity by emotion, novelty, or outward intensity, but by the truth of God’s Word and the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Not every manifestation that appears spiritual is from the Holy Spirit. The people of God are called to remain sober, watchful, and grounded in Scripture, so that error is not welcomed in the name of zeal. True discernment does not come from suspicion for its own sake, but from humble submission to Christ, reverence for His Word, and a desire to walk in the truth.
Call to watchfulness: Stay humble, prayerful, and anchored in truth. If you have wandered, return to Christ, who is faithful to forgive and restore all who come to Him.