February 18, 2016

So many people I talk to have questions about how we hear the voice of G-d. Throughout their lives, they may have had times where they think a voice or an event is from G-d, but they have trouble discerning the truth.
I have talked about how there have been leaders in this world who either in the name of G-d or in the name of unity, or security, or nationalism, they have deceived people into following them, often to disastrous results. Here are some examples, and if you do not recognize the names, then do some research:

Jim and Tammy Faye Baker – Jim Jones – David Koresh —

Everyone needs to have a discerning mind – it is necessary in this world where there are many “voices” vying for your attention, your loyalty, and your money. In the history of the church, there have been certain individuals who have possessed the ability to discern whether a message is from G-d, or from other voices. In Matthew 24:4-5 Jesus said that many would come in his name saying they are him, trying to deceive people into following them, but Jesus warned that we need to be discerning to determine if they are “of G-d”.

One of the best ways this pastor has determined to discern if something is “of G-d” or not is to turn to scripture. If the message someone is proclaiming directly contradicts scripture, you can be sure it is not “of G-d”. For example, over the millennia since Jesus ascended into heaven, there have been many, many people who have come forward to say they knew when Jesus was returning. They would often give a date – some even a time – and some changing the date on numerous occasions, and none have been right. But Jesus said clearly that “”But of that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. (Matthew 13:32)

My friends, always have a discerning ear, and if you wonder whether a message you are hearing is from G-d or not, talk to your pastor, or a trusted friend who you know is knowledgeable about scripture. Always have a discerning mind.

Pastor Dave