Red flags in life are meant to stop us from moving forward, right? One red flag we should never ignore is if everyone in our life voices concern for something we’re doing or the path we’re on. They show concern because they only want the best for us. When we notice this red flag, we should stop and evaluate it because they probably see something that we can’t see. Well, God wants the best for us, too. Our verse today shows us that He wants us to walk in TRUTH. Because walking in truth sets us free. To keep us walking in truth, though, God will put red flags before us… flags that should alert us to something that is not right. And if we ignore those red flags, we will never know complete freedom and we can easily be led astray. So, what are those red flags? Here are a few…
Red flag: “New” ideas. When someone you’re listening to claims they are speaking truth, but they’re proposing something that goes against 2,000 years of church history or contradicts what the Bible says. When someone says… I was always taught this, but I’ve been rethinking it.
Red flag: Not backed up with Scripture. When a pastor or teacher says we should live this way or honor this or do this, but they do not back it up with Scripture is a HUGE red flag. I’m very careful to ALWAYS back everything with Scripture. We should want to know what Scripture says, otherwise we might be adhering to some wacked out opinions.
Red flag: Taking verses out of context. For instance, the prosperity gospel often uses John 10:10 to promote health, wealth, and prosperity. They equate Jesus’ promise of abundant life with good health, wealth, and great success. But if we look at the whole Bible and what is being taught in the New Testament and what Jesus said, He equates abundant life with satisfaction, contentment, peace, joy. People who preach a prosperity gospel are those we should stay clear of.
Keep in mind that how we interpret a verse or passage should align with all of Scripture. One of the first Bible study tools I learned in Bible college is that Scripture interprets Scripture.
We have the Holy Spirit, of course, to help us discern. But the Holy Spirit’s work is fueled by our relationship with Jesus and His Word. In other words, the Holy Spirit rises in us the more we seek Jesus and let His Word pour over us DAILY. God wants us to live and walk in freedom. And the TRUTH is the only way to do that. So we must pay attention to the red flags that God lovingly puts in our pathway. Hope this encourages you today.