The Bible actually gives us both a standard and a process for testing whether a word is truly from God. Let’s break it down: --- 1. Knowing the Written Word Is Correct The foundation is Scripture itself. 2 Timothy 3:16–17 (TPT): “Every Scripture has been written by the Holy Spirit, the breath of God. It will empower you by its instruction and correction, giving you the strength to take the right direction and lead you deeper into the path of godliness. Then you will be God’s servant, fully mature and perfectly prepared to fulfill any assignment God gives you.” → Scripture is trustworthy because it is God-breathed, not man-invented. How to confirm it: Compare translations (sometimes wording differs, but the Spirit and message remain). Study the historical manuscripts (Dead Sea Scrolls, early copies confirm remarkable consistency). Lean on the Holy Spirit—He leads us into truth (John 16:13). --- 2. Testing the Spirit of a Word or Message The Bible warns us not every spirit is from God, so we need discernment. 1 John 4:1 (TPT): “Delightfully loved friends, don’t trust every spirit, but carefully examine what they say to determine if they are of God, because many false prophets have mingled into the world.” Ways to Test: 1. Does it align with Scripture? God will never contradict His own Word. (Galatians 1:8–9) 2. Does it glorify Jesus? A true word points people to Christ, not away from Him. (John 16:14) 3. Does it bear good fruit? If it produces love, peace, humility, repentance, and faith—it reflects the Spirit of God. (Matthew 7:16–20, Galatians 5:22–23) 4. Does it bring clarity or confusion? God is not the author of confusion but of peace. (1 Corinthians 14:33) 5. Does the Spirit within you confirm it? The Holy Spirit in you will give witness—sometimes a deep peace, sometimes a warning check. (Romans 8:16) --- 3. Practical Application When you read or hear a word, pause and pray: “Holy Spirit, is this of You?” Check the fruit: does it lead to righteousness and build faith?