Far more than Human Optimism
Observation
Paul knew that other messages were being preached to the Galatians. The messages seemed so convincing, so powerful. Optimistic - it must be from God, right? The messages seemed positive and the speakers energetic, but that does not necessarily mean the message is from God. God's Word is divinely inspired, and the Words of Christ are actually Spirit and Life (John 6:63). Any message that is contrary to the Words of Christ opposes God! The enemy is subtle and even comes as an angel of light, using bits and pieces of truth and twisting them to convince us and trick us into doubting God's Word and believing a lie.
Application
Each time I hear a famous quote or an inspiring word or a positive, convincing message - I have to see how it measures up to the Words of Christ! Is it contrary? Is this what Jesus would do or say? Anything spiritual must be inspired by the Holy Spirit. Jesus had the Spirit without measure, because He only Spoke the Words of God. John 3:34, AMP - "For since He Whom God has sent speaks the words of God [proclaims God’s own message], God does not give Him His Spirit sparingly or by measure, but boundless is the gift God makes of His Spirit!" Sometimes well meaning friends and family members around me share their opinion and speak into my life and sometimes I listen to things without taking the time to see if it measures up to God's Word. I need to be more careful what I pay attention to and ultimately give my attention to God's Word.
Prayer
"Father, thank You for Your Word! Keep me in line with Your Words. Help me to judge everything according to Your Word and live by Your Truth. Guard me against deceitful messages and the tricks and traps of the enemy. Keep my tongue in line with Your Word - forgive me for speaking doubtful, contrary words. Empower me by Your Spirit to speak Your Words consistently and live by them". Amen
Created over 2 years ago
