How can we discern truth when leaders' words "will not succeed"? Anchor Verse “Devise a plan, but it will be thwarted; state a proposal, but it will not happen. For God is with us.” – Isaiah 8:10 The Historical Snapshot • Isaiah speaks while Judah trembles under the threat of allied kings (Isaiah 7–8). • Political leaders announce bold strategies, yet God declares their words “will not happen.” • The issue is not military strength; it is whether those words align with the unchanging Word of God. Key Observations • God’s presence (“God is with us”) is the decisive factor behind what ultimately succeeds. • Human authority, no matter how loud or confident, cannot override divine truth (Psalm 33:10–11). • False confidence in leaders is exposed when their predictions collapse (Jeremiah 28:15–17). Discernment Principles • Compare every proclamation with Scripture. “The Bereans… examined the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true” (Acts 17:11). • Look for the testimony of Christ. “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). • Evaluate fruit, not publicity. “You will recognize them by their fruit” (Matthew 7:16). • Check the leader’s motive. Are they serving Christ or courting applause? (Galatians 1:10). • Rely on the Spirit’s guidance. “When He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). • Ask God for wisdom with confidence. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God… and it will be given” (James 1:5). Evaluating Leaders Today 1. Measure their words against the clear teaching of Scripture. 2. Observe lifestyle and integrity; truth leaves a trail of godly fruit (Titus 1:7–9). 3. Notice outcomes over time. God makes sure empty boasts unravel (Proverbs 19:21). 4. Stay connected to a community that values the Word, so private opinions are checked by corporate discernment (Ephesians 4:14–15). Staying Anchored • “Forever, O LORD, Your word is settled in heaven” (Psalm 119:89). • “The grass withers, the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8). • Trust grows as we witness promises kept and falsehood exposed. Closing Thoughts Leaders may craft eloquent visions, yet only words rooted in God’s Word endure. Hold fast to Scripture, lean on the Spirit, and watch how every boast that contradicts the Lord quietly fades. |
    |