Don't Get Caught Up!

Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.   Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.

~ James 1:16 (NKJV)

     Every few years, another newly found doctrine or fad comes into the church and creates a buzz. I am constantly reminded of what the church mothers used to say a long time ago: "If it's new, it ain't true". God's Word does not change, and although there is no limit to how He may choose to manifest Himself in our midst, He will never operate outside of the confines of His law, which is His Word. If God says or does something, you will find always the basis of it clearly stated in the Bible. 

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.  There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.  There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.

~ 1 Cor. 12:4-7 (NIV)

    The gifts or manifestations of the Holy Spirit are listed in 1 Corinthians 12, and according to the Word, the purpose of these gifts are for the common good of people. We can hear from God for ourselves, but sometimes God can and will use others to speak a word from Him to us. Sometimes we need a miracle, or we need healing, and God knows how to bring what we need through others at exactly the right time. If you have a question as to whether or not something is from God, look it up in the Word! God has placed all kinds of checks and balances around us to keep us from being led astray. One of the reasons there is so much confusion and circus-like activity in many churches today is because we are not paying attention to God's Word and are allowing all kinds of strange practices to go on. If you don't believe this, go on You Tube and see some of the things that are being exalted in the House of God. You will see a man being crowned as king and paraded around in the church, preachers are using quasi-profanity to bring spice to their messages, and New Age gurus are getting platforms at what used to be Christ-centered events.  Where is God in all of this?

You crazy Galatians! Did someone put a hex on you? Have you taken leave of your senses? Something crazy has happened, for it’s obvious that you no longer have the crucified Jesus in clear focus in your lives. His sacrifice on the cross was certainly set before you clearly enough.

~ Galatians 3:1 (MSG)

    Although it's true that everything in the Bible is not always clearly stated, if you have to stretch and twist the Word to make it fit something that you are doing, that's a sign that it's not from God. There is enough truth available so that no one has to go around making up new gifts and devising ways  to get a crowd to gather. Be careful of whom you allow to speak into your life or give you information that has its roots in occultic practices. By participating in this, you are giving the enemy access to your soul, and tainting your ministry. Discern the source of people who are quick to offer spiritual methods in finding your destiny and life purpose outside of prayer, fasting, preparation and being led of God. No matter what anyone says,the only power for a Christian is in the Name of Jesus! 

   It's never popular to not follow the crowd, but in these times, letting the crowd go ahead of you is often the safest choice to make. Be prayerful, be watchful, and don't get caught up!