They may say it with a smile, or with a scowl. They often speak through gifts or demands. But however the people come across and show or tell who they are–believe them.

So many are struggling with this simple fact. Phrases like, “But they were so nice” are said. Or, “You snapped … I thought you were angry with me” keep many people confused.

Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.
1 John 4:1

How are we to test a spirit and see if it’s from God? ��One of the best ways is to examine review the words being said and what is declared in the person’s life. Are words and actions matching? Do they act in private like they do in public? That’s a good tell.

Pause. ��Do the words or actions point to Christ or the teachings of Christ, or do they point to self gratification? 1 John 4 continues:

This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming ��and even now is already in the world.
1 John 4:2-3

People are still reeling over the death of Charlie Kirk and several voices are vying for attention. It is wise to be on guard. Remember, the Apostle Paul wrote of what Christians need to strive for when trying to emulate Jesus:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23

It makes my heart happy when I review the list of the Fruits of the Spirit. So what do we do when people show these characteristics? More times than not, they can be believed. We watch … and learn … and then we believe them.

What say you?

What do you wonder about?�� Are you happy ��� or are you doing what you never thought you���d do? Do you see consistencies ��� or are you all over the place? Drop me a line. I���d love to chat.

Struggling to find good in your life? Check out my award-winning book,��God���s Best During Your Worst, or check out any of my other books on my��Book��page.

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