Discerning Between God's Voice and Satan's Voice
Discerning Between God's Voice and Satan's Voice
Short Summary:
This transcript explores the challenge of discerning between God's voice and the devil's voice. It emphasizes that this is not a simple task and that there are no quick fixes. The speaker outlines several principles for developing discernment, including: surrendering self-will, knowing the Bible, trusting God to guide thoughts, waiting for confirmation, recognizing the Holy Spirit's consistency, and understanding that God does not force or demand. The transcript also highlights the role of providence in confirming God's leading.
Detailed Summary:
Section 1: Introduction
The speaker begins by acknowledging the difficulty of discerning between God's voice and the devil's voice, emphasizing that it requires practice and experience. They highlight the enemy's subtlety and mastery of deceit, emphasizing the need for discernment as a skill to be developed. The speaker quotes Hebrews 5:14 to illustrate the importance of exercising one's senses to discern good and evil. They acknowledge that mistakes will be made but emphasize that these mistakes provide valuable lessons about God and the enemy.
Section 2: Principles for Discernment
The speaker outlines several principles for developing discernment:
- Surrender Self-Will: The speaker emphasizes the need to surrender personal goals and desires, aligning oneself with God's will. This includes relinquishing religious ambitions and presenting oneself for God's disposal (Romans 12:1).
- Know the Truth: The speaker stresses the importance of a strong understanding of the Bible, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit will not contradict scripture.
- Trust God's Guidance: The speaker encourages trusting God to guide thoughts and actions, citing Proverbs 16:3. They emphasize that God will provide guidance and protection, allowing individuals to proceed in life with confidence.
- Wait for Confirmation: In matters of importance, the speaker advises waiting for a clear and certain word from God, especially when there is uneasiness or doubt. They highlight God's patience and the importance of testing the spirits.
- Recognize the Holy Spirit's Consistency: The speaker emphasizes the Holy Spirit's consistency and persistence, stating that God does not change. They advise disregarding multiple impressions, as the Holy Spirit leads in one direction.
- Distinguish from the Devil's Influence: The speaker differentiates between the Holy Spirit's guidance and the devil's influence. The devil often creates a sense of urgency and pressure, while the Holy Spirit leads with peace and time for reflection.
- Look for Providence: The speaker emphasizes the role of providence in confirming God's leading. God provides the way, clears obstacles, and opens doors. The devil may hinder but cannot stop what God has initiated.
Section 3: Conclusion
The speaker concludes by reiterating the importance of developing discernment through practice and experience. They emphasize the need for patience and trust in God's guidance, highlighting the role of providence in confirming His leading.