Devotion for Thursday, October 14, 2021

“Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances.  But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:19-22).

Perhaps the best words for our day are the simple words, “Examine everything carefully.”  Too often we take things as we hear them and do not give it a second thought.  True, we take things on authority, but that does not mean we should not test to see if what is said is true.  Take it all in and the Holy Spirit will sift through and help you to see what is right and true.  Listen and learn.

Lord, You know how much false information is out there.  So many are saying all kinds of things and much of it is not true, or so twisted as to be the same as a lie.  Guide me, Lord, so that I may always look to You so see what is right and true.  Help me to not be caught up with what others believe without substantiation, but always take all things in first and then in You discern what is true by Your revelation.

Come, Holy Spirit, and stir my mind to not be offended at lies, for they are all around me.  Help me sift through things so that I may see what is right and fitting amongst all the lies that swirl around me.  Teach me how to examine everything carefully in order that I may know what is evil and abstain from those things.  Teach me to hold fast to all that is right and good.  Guide me now and always in truth.  Amen.