There is wisdom in the multitude of counselors.
Eve took a bite of the fruit, when she was alone – separate from Adam. She believed (deception) that she was doing the “right’ thing by gaining knowledge. Chaos and confusion ensued shortly after…
Elijah fled to be alone – in the wilderness, for fear of Jezebel. He believed (deception) that her power was greater than God, and sought to die before she could get to him. Chaos and confusion ensued shortly after…
Jesus, Himself, was even tempted by the enemy when He was in the wilderness…
If there’s a situation or trial you are facing and you are tempted to isolate yourself – that is not the Holy Spirit influencing you to do so. There is wisdom in the multitude of counselors. The Lord has established community for a reason. He knew apart from community, we become weakened and targets for the enemy.
Deception occurs when there is no one present to “sharpen” you or hold you accountable.
If you are wondering whether you are under the influence of the Holy Spirit or the enemy, as you are handling a situation, look at the fruit that surrounds you. Is there confusion? A feeling of oppression? Anxiety? The Holy Spirit will never lead you to feel this way. He is our helper, our comforter, our advocate.
Even in the midst of difficulty, there will be a PEACE that is unexplainable and present – that is the signature mark of the Holy Spirit.
If thoughts of depression, anxiety, anger, worthlessness, and doubt are all bombarding you and festering in your mind – it’s time to recognize that you’ve allowed your mind to be a playground for thee enemy for far too long. Submit your mind to the Lordship of Jesus. Ask Him to renew it. To renew your thoughts. Spend time reading Scripture – countering lie with truth. Pray for community – true followers of Christ. Ask the Holy Spirit to be your advocate, your comforter and to give you PEACE that surpasses all understanding. HE will enable you. HE will strengthen you to withstand whatever storm you are in the midst of.
Satan signs his work with confusion. The Lord signs His with PEACE.
The enemy will use past hurt, either by the church or by people, to deceive you into believing that you need to isolate yourself. Don’t fall for it.
“For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace…”
1 Corinthians 14:33
“…and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
2 Corinthians 10:5
Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment.
Proverbs 18:1
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”
Phillipians 4:7