How to Test the Spirits: Are We Hearing from God or Being Deceived?
Blog Post
Introduction:
In a world full of hidden knowledge, prophetic dreams, and end-times speculation, how do we know if what we are hearing is truly from God? The Bible warns that Satan masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14), and even well-meaning believers can be led astray by false revelations.
This is why 1 John 4:1 commands us to “test the spirits.” Not every thought, vision, or revelation comes from YHWH. Some are from our own minds, others from deceptive spirits, and some may be divinely inspired but misunderstood. So, how do we discern the truth?
Let’s walk through the biblical way to test the spirits and stay firmly rooted in YHWH’s truth.
The Biblical Command to Test the Spirits
“Beloved ones, do not believe every spirit, but prove the spirits, whether they are of Elohim, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
—1 John 4:1, ISR
This means:
Not every revelation is from God.
Even deep spiritual insights can be deceptive if they do not align with Scripture.
We are commanded to test and prove what we hear—never blindly accept it—this is why so many are led astray.
How to Test the Spirits – A Biblical Checklist
A. Does It Align with YHWH’s Word?
God will never contradict His Word. If what you’re sensing agrees with Scripture, it is more likely from Him.
Check the context—does it align with YHWH’s character and eternal truth?
“By this you know the Spirit of Elohim: Every spirit that confesses that יהושע Messiah has come in the flesh is of Elohim.”
B. Does It Exalt Yeshua?
A true revelation always glorifies Yeshua (Jesus), never distorts or diminishes Him.
If something pushes you toward righteousness, repentance, and holiness, it is from God.
If it elevates human wisdom, pride, or confusion, it is not from Him.
“For Elohim has not given us a spirit of cowardice, but of power and of love and of self-control.”
C. Does It Produce Fear or Peace?
“For Elohim has not given us a spirit of cowardice, but of power and of love and of self-control.” — 2 Timothy 1:7, ISR2009
The enemy operates through fear, confusion, and spiritual pride.
The Holy Spirit operates through peace, wisdom, and conviction—not condemnation.
Ask yourself:
Is this drawing me closer to God?
Or is it stirring anxiety, speculation, or a sense of spiritual elitism?
D. Does It Lead to Righteousness or Distract You?
A true revelation from YHWH leads to deeper obedience, holiness, and humility.
False revelations pull people into endless speculation, distractions, and pride.
“By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established.”
E. Is There Confirmation?
“By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established.”
—2 Corinthians 13:1, ISR2009
If this is a true revelation from God, He will confirm it through Scripture, other believers, or circumstances.
Seek wise counsel—do other strong believers see this in Scripture?
What If You Are Being Deceived?
If something doesn’t pass the test, what should you do?
Pray for discernment → “Father, if this is from You, confirm it. If it is not, remove it from me.”
Fast and seek clarity → Fasting cuts through deception and brings clarity from God.
Stay rooted in the Word → The more Scripture you know, the harder it is to be deceived.
Reject pride → If a revelation makes you feel like you’ve uncovered a “secret truth” that no one else has, be careful—Satan often tempts through secret knowledge (Gnosticism).
What Should You Do Next?
Take everything to prayer and Scripture.
Hold revelations loosely—if they are from God, He will confirm them.
If a revelation pulls you toward endless speculation instead of faith, let it go.
Stay humble—wisdom comes not from hidden mysteries, but from knowing YHWH Himself.
Final Thought: Is This a Test for You?
Maybe this is a test in itself—perhaps YHWH is seeing whether you will cling to Him over revelation, even when something feels profound.
The greatest wisdom is not in uncovering hidden mysteries, but in knowing YHWH, obeying Him, and walking humbly in His presence.
What are your thoughts? Have you ever had to test a revelation before? How did God confirm it for you? Let’s seek Him together—because in these last days, discernment is more critical than ever.
✦ Stay Rooted in the Word ✦
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