NOT EVERYTHING SPIRITUAL IS FROM GOD In today’s world, many people assume that anything that appears “spiritual” must automatically come from God. But the Bible clearly warns us otherwise. Spiritual activity does not equal divine approval. There are multiple spiritual sources, and not all originate from God. As believers, one of the most critical skills we must develop is discernment—the ability to distinguish between what is truly from God and what is not. 1 John 4:1 – “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God…” 2 Corinthians 11:14 – “And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.” Matthew 24:24 – “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets…” 1. THERE ARE DIFFERENT SOURCES OF SPIRITUAL POWER Not everything supernatural is divine. The Bible reveals three primary spiritual sources: a. God (The Holy Spirit) John 14:26 – The Holy Spirit teaches truth Brings peace, clarity, holiness, and alignment with God’s Word b. Satan and Demonic Forces Ephesians 6:12 – We wrestle against spiritual wickedness Can perform signs and wonders to deceive. c. Human Spirit / Flesh Jeremiah 17:9 – The heart can be deceitful Some “spiritual experiences” come from emotions, imagination, or pride Just because something feels powerful, emotional, or mysterious does not mean it is from God. 2. SATAN CAN IMITATE GOD 2 Corinthians 11:14 – Satan appears as an angel of light Exodus 7:10–12 – Pharaoh’s magicians replicated miracles The enemy does not always come in a scary form—he often comes looking holy, wise, and convincing. Examples of imitation: - False prophecies - Fake miracles - Misleading visions and dreams Warning: If Satan came as darkness, nobody would follow him. He comes disguised as light. 3. SIGNS AND WONDERS ARE NOT ALWAYS PROOF OF GOD Matthew 7:22–23 – “Did we not prophesy in your name…?” Matthew 24:24 – False prophets will show great signs Miracles alone are not enough to validate a ministry or message. God is not just in power—He is in truth and holiness. 4. TEST EVERY SPIRIT 1 John 4:1 – “Try the spirits whether they are of God” You are not called to accept everything—you are called to test everything. How to test what is spiritual: a. Does it align with the Word of God? Isaiah 8:20 – If it does not speak according to the Word, there is no light in it b. Does it glorify Jesus Christ? John 16:14 – The Holy Spirit glorifies Christ c. What fruit does it produce? Galatians 5:22–23 – Love, peace, holiness d. Does it bring confusion or peace? 1 Corinthians 14:33 – God is not the author of confusion 5. DANGERS OF FOLLOWING FALSE SPIRITUAL THINGS a. Spiritual deception You can think you are right while heading in the wrong direction b. Bondage What looks spiritual can enslave your life c. Separation from God False spirituality distances you from truth 2 Thessalonians 2:10–11 – Strong delusion comes to those who reject truth 6. WHY MANY PEOPLE ARE DECEIVED a. Lack of knowledge Hosea 4:6 – My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge b. Desire for power instead of God Some seek miracles more than the God of miracles c. Ignoring the Holy Spirit’s warning The Spirit often warns quietly, but many ignore Him 7. HOW TO STAY SAFE a. Stay rooted in the Word The Word is your standard b. Develop spiritual discernment Hebrews 5:14 – Mature believers discern good and evil c. Maintain a close relationship with God The closer you are to God, the easier it is to detect error d. Be humble and teachable Pride blinds, humility protects CONCLUSION Beloved, not everything spiritual is from God. In these last days, deception will increase, and only those who are grounded in truth will stand. Do not be moved by appearance, power, or popularity—be moved by truth. Test every spirit Hold onto the Word Follow the Holy Spirit Final Scripture: John 10:27 – “My sheep hear my voice… and they follow me.” PRAYER POINTS Lord, give me the spirit of discernment Deliver me from every form of deception Help me to know Your voice clearly Let Your truth guide my life always Pastor Abiodun Kadri #SpiritualDiscernment #TruthOfGod #EndTimeWarning #KnowTheTruth #HolySpiritGuidance #ChristianLiving #Discernment #BibleTruth #FaithWalk #StayInTruth