Have you ever noticed how easy it is to be drawn to feel-good messages? Messages about blessings, success, and prosperity can be so appealing. And while there’s nothing wrong with wanting good things in life, the truth is, not every message that sounds good aligns with the gospel of Christ. This is why the Bible tells us to “try the spirit by the Spirit” – to test what we hear and see if it truly comes from God.
Blinded to the Truth
The Bible warns us in 2 Corinthians 4:4 that “the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” In other words, many people are spiritually blinded, unable to see the truth of God’s message because false teachings and distractions cloud their vision.
It’s no surprise, then, that so many would rather hear a “good” word about wealth or success rather than the truth of the gospel. Prosperity messages may sound appealing, but they can also mislead us if they stray from what Scripture teaches. The gospel is not just about material blessings – it’s about salvation, transformation, and living a life that honors God.
Testing the Spirits
1 John 4:1 tells us, “Beloved, 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.” Simply put, not everyone who claims to speak for God truly does. This isn’t a new problem; even in biblical times, people twisted God’s word for their own gain.
2 Corinthians 2:17 reminds us, “For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God’s word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God.” Sadly, some today still “sell” prophecy or offer words on-demand for money, turning what should be a sacred gift into a transaction. If someone is claiming they’ll tell you what God says for a fee, beware. Instead, test what they say against Scripture. Does it align with God’s word? Does it glorify Christ?
True Prophecy Aligns with Scripture
The Bible is clear that the gift of prophecy is real and meant to edify believers. But it must always shine in agreement with Scripture. True prophecy will never contradict God’s word or be used for personal gain. Before accepting a message as God’s truth, pray, seek guidance from Scripture, and listen for the Holy Spirit’s leading.
A Time for Prayer and Action
We live in challenging times. When our leaders sow division or ignore justice, and when the foundations of our society seem to crumble, it is a wake-up call for all of us. Psalm 11:3 asks, “If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” The answer: pray, seek God, and act righteously.
Second Chronicles 7:14 gives us a promise: “If My people who are called by My name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” This is a call to action for all believers. It’s time to abandon wicked ways, return to the Lord, and pray for healing in our hearts and our nation.
Seek the Lord While He May Be Found
Isaiah 55:6-7 reminds us, “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked abandon his way, and the unrighteous person his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, and He will have compassion on him.” God is always ready to forgive and restore those who come to Him with a humble heart.
This is a time to draw closer to God, to test every spirit and ensure the truth we follow aligns with His word. Let’s not be swayed by messages that merely tickle our ears but instead seek the unchanging truth of the gospel. In doing so, we will walk in His light and help shine that light into a world that desperately needs it.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 