How can we discern God's messages today, inspired by Amos 3:7? The Prophetic Principle in Amos 3:7 “Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets.” (Amos 3:7) Why This Matters Today - God still delights to communicate with His people; He has not changed (Malachi 3:6). - While the prophetic office is foundational (Ephesians 2:20), the Lord now speaks primarily through His completed Word and the Holy Spirit’s inner witness (Hebrews 1:1-2). - Our task: recognize and rightly weigh what He is saying so we can walk in obedience (John 10:27). Primary Channel: Scripture - “All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable…” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). - “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105). - Any message contradicting plain biblical teaching is automatically discarded (Galatians 1:8). The Holy Spirit’s Inner Witness - “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13). - “We have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.” (1 Corinthians 2:12). Key markers of His voice: • Draws attention to Christ, not self (John 16:14). • Produces conviction, not condemnation (Romans 8:1). • Bears the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, etc. (Galatians 5:22-23). Time-Tested Tests for Any Impression 1 • Biblical Alignment—Does it square with the whole counsel of God? (Acts 17:11). 2 • Christ-Centeredness—Does it exalt Jesus as Lord? (1 Corinthians 12:3). 3 • Moral Integrity—Does obeying it foster holiness? (1 Peter 1:15-16). 4 • Wise Counsel—Do mature believers affirm it? (Proverbs 11:14). 5 • Providential Confirmation—Does God open doors consistent with it? (Revelation 3:8). 6 • Spiritual Fruit—Does it yield righteousness and peace? (Matthew 7:17). Practical Rhythms for Discernment - Daily, systematic Bible reading—learn His tone and truth. - Quiet reflection—pause after reading; ask, “Lord, what are You showing me today?” - Journaling—record insights, impressions, and confirmations over time. - Spirit-led obedience—act on clear direction; light for the next step comes as we walk in the one already given (Psalm 119:130). - Fellowship and accountability—share and test insights in a trusted community (Hebrews 10:24-25). Guardrails Against Deception • Beware of novelty that eclipses the gospel (2 Corinthians 11:3-4). • Reject any claim that bypasses Jesus as the only mediator (1 Timothy 2:5). • Stay clear of occult practices; God forbids them (Deuteronomy 18:9-14). Living in Expectant Obedience “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” (Luke 11:28) God’s messages are never mere information; they are invitations to trust, obey, and reflect His glory in everyday life. |
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