Have you ever had someone come to you claiming to be acting on God's direction, only to later discover that their intentions were not pure? It's a frustrating and hurtful experience, but it's important to recognize that this kind of behavior is not of God. In this post, we'll explore how to identify these kinds of people and how to respond when they try to disrupt your calling.
The Deceptive Nature of False Prophets
People who claim to be acting on God's behalf but are actually following their own selfish motivations are often referred to as false prophets. These individuals have been around since biblical times, and their deceptive nature is well-documented in the Bible. They may come across as charming or persuasive, but their true intentions are revealed by their actions. They may say they are there to “Lift” you but the entire time organizing and gathering people to go against you or your God called purpose. Even to the point of telling people that we decided we are not going to do the thing in which God has called you to do.
False prophets are not always easy to spot, but one telltale sign is that their words do not align with their actions. They may claim to be lifting you up, but in reality, they are undermining your efforts and causing chaos. They find faults with others and even claim that it is the other people who have a disruptive spirit when they in actuality are the ones causing the division, chaos and demand a type of unity that aligns with their own purposes instead of God and what He is calling you to do. It's important to stay vigilant and not be fooled by their words.
Remember, "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves" (Matthew 7:15).
The Adversary's Influence
When someone is intentionally trying to disrupt what God has called you to do, they are acting as a tool of the adversary. The devil seeks to destroy our faith and hinder our progress, and he often uses people to do so. When someone is working against God's plan for your life, it's important to recognize that they are not your friend, and their intentions are not pure. When they intentionally use you to further their own self serving agenda instead of “Lifting” what God has called you to do then that influence is not of God it is purely motivated by the adversary and often they are too blind to see it because they feel that they are righteous in their intentions. But the road to hell as it is often said is paved with good intentions.
However, it's important to remember that the adversary does not have the final say. God is still in control, and He can use even the most challenging situations for our good. "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).
Don't let the adversary's influence discourage you; instead, stay focused on God's plan for your life.
Not even the adversary can stop what God has purposed. A tall tell sign that God is the one in control is how an organization or the work of God prospers. If it is not going anywhere and has not for years you had to ask yourself what the motivation behind this are, is God actually calling the shots or is it self-serving and selfish desires. The adversary can take good things, even good intentions and keep people so bound in it that it goes nowhere.
The Importance of Discernment
Discernment is the ability to judge between right and wrong, good and evil. When it comes to dealing with false prophets, discernment is essential. We must be able to recognize when someone is not acting in accordance with God's plan for our lives.
Discernment is not something that comes naturally; it is a skill that must be developed over time. We can cultivate discernment by spending time in prayer and studying God's word. When we are rooted in God's truth, we are better equipped to recognize when someone is acting out of line.
"But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil" (Hebrews 5:14).
The Danger of Comparison
One reason why false prophets can be so damaging is that they often try to make us feel inferior or insignificant. They may try to convince us that we are not doing enough, or that we are not as talented as someone else. This kind of comparison can be dangerous, as it can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.
It's important to remember that we are each uniquely gifted and called by God. We should not compare ourselves to others, but instead focus on blooming where we are planted. When we are operating in our God-given purpose, we will find joy and fulfillment, regardless of what others may say or do.
The Power of Forgiveness
When someone has intentionally caused harm, it can be difficult to forgive them. However, forgiveness is an essential part of the Christian faith. We are called to forgive others as we have been forgiven by God.
Forgiveness does not mean that we condone the other person's behavior, but it does mean that we release them from our anger and bitterness. When we forgive, we are able to move forward and continue pursuing God's plan for our lives.
"For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses" (Matthew 6:14-15).
The Importance of Boundaries
When dealing with false prophets, it's important to set boundaries to protect yourself. This may mean limiting your interactions with the person, or being clear about what behavior is not acceptable.
Boundaries are not meant to be punitive, but rather to create a safe and healthy environment for everyone involved. When we set boundaries, we are able to maintain our sense of self-worth and protect ourselves from harm.
"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it" (Proverbs 4:23).
The Importance of Community
Dealing with false prophets can be a lonely and isolating experience. However, it's important to remember that we are not meant to go through life alone. God created us for community, and we need the support and encouragement of others to thrive.
Find a community of believers who can support you through this challenging time. Surround yourself with people who will speak truth into your life and encourage you to keep pursuing God's plan for your life. Don’t align yourself with people who deliberately set out to say they receive a revelation for you, for what God has called you to do and that they decide to not partake and tell others we are not going to do this or that or do something God has purposed for you. That is okay, they simply do not have the capacity to go where God is taking you. They are not part of your community; they may be part of your season, but they are not part of your destiny.
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near" (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Trusting God's Plan
Ultimately, our trust must be in God's plan for our lives. While it can be frustrating and painful to deal with false prophets, we can trust that God is still working behind the scenes to bring about His purposes.
Remember, "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). God can use even the most difficult situations for our good and His glory.
Dealing with false prophets is never easy, but it's important to remember that we are not alone. God is with us every step of the way, and He will provide the wisdom and strength we need to navigate these challenging situations.
Remember to stay rooted in God's truth, and to surround yourself with a community of believers who can support and encourage you. Keep pursuing God's plan for your life, and do not let the words or actions of others discourage you from fulfilling your calling.
"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain" (1 Corinthians 15:58).
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