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Is It Really Of God? – Part 2

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

Paul told the Ephesian elders about one of his leadings. Listen: '...now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me' (Acts 20:22-23). Now, Paul was not being asked to do something contrary to his gifts; all the way to Jerusalem he would be preaching and strengthening the new churches. He was however, being asked to sacrifice his own safety and comfort in order to reach and bless others. Not every leading will involve pain and sacrifice, but some will mean gut-wrenching decisions that require you to choose between being comfortable or building godly character, amassing things or seeking first His kingdom, promoting yourself or serving others.

When it comes to following the Holy Spirit's leadings, here are a few cautionary points to observe: a) does it require you to make a major, life-changing decision in a very short period of time? b) does it require you to go deeply into debt or place someone else in a position of awkwardness, compromise or danger? c) does it require you to shatter family ties or covenant relationships? d) does it create unrest in the spirit of mature friends and counselors?

But let us not end on a negative note. While God wants you to test the spirits, He also wants you to step out in faith and follow Him. So do not be afraid.

Prayer
Heavenly Father – help me use discernment and your guidance in your word to lead me where you would want me to be. In Your Precious Name, Amen