Category: Deception

The Condition of the Heart: Insights for Spiritual Growth and Renewal (Repost)

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God does not see as man sees, since man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7) People tend to judge the character and worth of others by looking at outward appearances. If a person is tall,…

Rising Above Deception: Embracing Divine Wisdom

”But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, free of hypocrisy.” (James 3:17) God graciously makes Himself known to humanity through the Holy Spirit, His Word and those who speak the truth in love. God has thoughts and plans to prosper each one of us. It was never His…

Breaking the Religious Spirit: How to Recognize and Overcome It

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” —James 1:27 NIV This message provides ways to identify and conquer the religious spirit.  It addresses the religious spirit and its impact on church effectiveness by emphasizing, ‘understanding’ and…

Avoiding Spiritual Deception: Developing Discernment in Times of Uncertainty

There is a prophetic word that comes to every generation giving us a glimpse into the mind and will of God. It is revealed for the benefit of all who will heed (respect) the Word of God. Some will not obey the word, and therefore they will encounter the consequences of their disobedience. When there is a prophetic word that…