The Apostle John addresses fear. During this 4th wave of COVID-19, there are various fears that we might experience.
John challenges his readers to “test every spirit”. False prophets can disguise themselves and the only way to discern is to know God’s Word. Jesus said the Truth will set you free. False teaching and antichrist and worldly perspective will discourage us, and we will live defeated lives in fear. In the confusion and darkness today, the Psalmist reminds us that God’s Word is a light for our path (Psalm.119:105).
Truth sets us free indeed! The Spirit of God dwells in us, and we are the children of God. The Spirit of God was promised to us and that He will guide us into all truth. God’s Spirit will only enter our hearts when we acknowledge Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God.
The Spirit of God also confronts us when we sin. God condemns false prophets who announce peace when there is no peace (Ezekiel 13:9-11), who have not been sent by God (Jeremiah 14:14), who prophesy lies (Jeremiah 27:14), who threaten God’s true prophets (Jeremiah 26: 7-9) and who speak empty, boastful words appealing to lustful desires of the flesh (II Peter 2:17-18).
Stay connected to God’s Word, stay connected in community, and grow through spiritual disciplines
When we stay connected to God, His life flows in us. The main evidence of God’s life in us through the miracle of God’s love flowing through to others. If we love one another, God lives in us, and His love is made complete (perfect) in us (vs.12). God’s life pushes (drives) out fear and replaces it with LOVE!
Fear can be a barrier in our lives. The Word of Truth removes this barrier and replaces it with FREEDOM. I am free to love, to dance and to bless my brother and my sister with the eternal life of God in me.
Let us live life to the fullest through the Son of God who gave His life for us!