Quote
Discerning Various Spirits and Influences. We can be influenced by many spirits sharing this earth with us. Some, like ours, are in bodies of flesh and bone; others can be spirits without a body. Bruce R. McConkie tells us, “To all men in some degree and to the faithful saints in particular is given the spirit, gift, and power of discernment.” He also states, “If a man has power to part the veil and converse with angels and with the ministering spirits who dwell in the realms of light, surely this is a gift of the Spirit.” We can discern good from evil spirits with the help of the Holy Ghost and we receive this gift and the right to heavenly ministering angels if we live worthily. The Apostle John gives us advice on how to develop this gift of discernment: “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every Spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: and every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.” (1 Jn. 4:1-3.) As John tells us, a testimony of Christ quickly distinguishes between the spirits of truth and error. The gift of discernment insures that we will recognize the proper sources of truth and goodness. This gift includes knowing how spiritual gifts are administered and recognizing the various operations of the Spirit. With it, we can fully develop all the spiritual gifts of learning.Share
Sign In to comment on this quote
