2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Jude 1 GW; Ezekiel 34 GW; Psalms 4 GW
False teachers require discernment.
Schisters know the right thing to say to get what they want. We all know people like this; they could sell ice to an Eskimo. When spirituality is the topic, false teachers abound. To grow in discernment, you must steep yourself in God’s word. Memorizing scripture helps you quickly discern when someone isn’t telling the truth. Many people have done horrible things claiming their actions were because of God.
Throwing God’s name around isn’t something you should do lightly. If what you’re doing contradicts God’s word, then odds are, you’re not listening to God. Taking scripture out of context is something God frown’s upon:
“Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar.” (Proverbs 30:5-6 ESV)
Focus on God’s truth
If you study the truth, lies are easy to spot. When you know something so well, you can identify the slightest variation. On a visit to rural Delaware visiting friends, I rode in the car with my adopted niece. Carolanne loves all things farming; as we were driving by the many fields filling the countryside, she said something profound. “When you know the fields as well as I do, you can tell whose field is whose.” Her remark stunned me, because to me, they all looked the same. How could she possibly know the difference? But she did because she knew the area so well she could quickly identify any field.
The same thing happens when we know God’s word so intimately, we can easily spot the false teachers. Even though they sound convincing, exposing their lies is simple. God’s word never changes, no matter how hard false teachers try. Memorizing scripture helps grow your discernment and identify schisters without much effort. But you must focus on the truth; it will lead you through the lies.
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Lord, thank You for Word which guides us. Forgive us for falling for false teachings. Help us today identify the liars in our lives. Expose them to us as we seek You. Implant Your word in our souls so that we know the truth so intimately, no one can fool us. IJNIP. Amen
Question for reflection
Who has tried to trick you lately?
