Mark 14:72 tells the story of Peter's denial of Jesus, which happened just as Jesus had predicted. The rooster crowed twice, and Peter remembered Jesus' words, "Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times." Overcome with guilt, Peter broke down and wept.
This verse serves as a reminder that Jesus is all-knowing and can see the beginning and the end of all things. He loves us and directs us towards the right path through warnings and rebukes. It is up to us to discern these warnings and take action accordingly.
We can determine if these warnings are from God by examining it's fruit in our lives.
Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruits of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. If we see these fruits in our lives, we know we are on the right track.
On the other hand, Galatians 5:19-21 lists the acts of the flesh, including sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and more. If we see these in our lives, we know we need to make changes.
Paul the Apostle also warns us,
“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” Galatians 5:24-26 NIV
Not everything we think and hear is from the Lord. Let us learn to discern the Holy Spirit.
Warnings from the Holy Spirit brings Peace and Love. Whisper from the enemy brings Chaos and Destruction (John 10:10).
We must be honest with ourselves and make the necessary adjustments to align ourselves with God's plan. By doing so, we can live a life that pleases Him.
We may make mistakes along the way, but we can take comfort in knowing that God loves us and will guide us back onto the right path. Regularly examining our hearts and weighing everything we hear against the fruit of the Spirit can help us discern what is from God and what is not.
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