Unmerited, unearned, undeserved favor from God is something the world doesn’t understand, but it’s a blessing that Christians have in abundance. Living under the new covenant of grace gives us amazing benefits; however, we must be careful not to take these benefits for granted. In these last days, it’s important to vigilantly guard against false doctrines. We can hear all kinds of messages, but some of what we hear won’t line up with the Word of truth.

Not everything that’s preached is grace-based. Regardless of how good a sermon sounds when it’s preached from the pulpit, we need to rely on the Holy Spirit to tell us what’s behind that message. Watered-down versions of the Gospel of Grace will lead us astray. In his letter to the Galatians, Paul expressed surprise and astonishment that the church turned renegade and deserted Him who called them by the grace of Christ.

Despite his past, Paul received abundant grace and forgiveness from God. Although Paul endured severe persecution because of the message he brought, he remained laser-focused on preaching grace, and nothing else. Nothing in the natural realm moved him; his main motivation was to further the ministry he had received from Jesus, to testify of the gospel of God’s grace.

There is no other genuine gospel other than the Gospel of Grace, yet some people can disturb and bewilder us with a different kind of teaching. Not every spirit is from God. It’s up to us to test the spirits, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. It’s important to watch out for and avoid those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to sound doctrine.

We mustn’t let ourselves be sidetracked from what we know is the truth. Spiritual discernment helps keep us from being tripped up by any philosophy that contradicts the message of grace. By being alert and mindful of spiritual danger, we can walk in the blessings Jesus made available to us.

Prayer:

Lord, Your undeserved favor makes some amazing benefits available to us, but there is always a danger that false doctrines will hold us back from receiving blessings. You warn us in Your Word not to fall prey to these wrong teachings, and you sent us the Holy Spirit to help us distinguish between the false doctrines and Your Word. We’re thankful for Your help. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Scriptures:

• Galatians 1:6, 7 AMPC
• Acts 20:24
• 1 John 4:1
• Romans 16:17