THE JOURNAL

DEVOTION & EXEGESIS

10 MIN READ

19 DECEMBER 2024

.

.

.

Discernment in Blessings: Are They From God or the Enemy?

God who desires to bless His children, but not every “blessing” is truly from Him. The Bible warns us about counterfeit blessings

PRIYANKA MARTIN

Founder & Contemplative Author

.

I

SEND PRAYER

“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

Psalm 16:11

I

n our pursuit of blessings, breakthroughs, and success, it’s easy to misinterpret what comes our way as being from God. We serve a generous and loving God who desires to bless His children, but not every “blessing” is truly from Him. The Bible warns us about counterfeit blessings – things that may appear good on the surface but are designed by the enemy to divert our attention, harm our walk with God, and break us away from our calling. It is crucial for every believer to ask: Is this blessing drawing me closer to God, or is it glorifying me?

Satan is a master deceiver. He often disguises his schemes in ways that appear attractive and even godly at first. In 2 Corinthians 11:14, we are told, “And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” The enemy knows that blatant sin is not always effective in luring believers away. Instead, he presents “counterfeit blessings” – opportunities, relationships, or successes – that seem beneficial but ultimately pull us away from God’s will.

What starts as a good thing often unravels, causing spiritual drift and leaving you feeling empty. In Proverbs 14:12, we are reminded: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.”

How, then, can we discern whether a blessing is truly from God? The answer lies in wisdom and careful reflection. James 1:17 says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” True blessings from God will align with His Word, His character, and His purpose for your life.

A blessing from the Lord will deepen your relationship with Him. If you find yourself praying less, compromising your values, or becoming self-reliant, it’s time to reassess. God’s blessings inspire gratitude, dependence, and worship.

Psalm 16:11 says: “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

True blessings point to the goodness, power, and provision of God. When a blessing becomes about building your own kingdom, your own pride, or feeding your ego, it may no longer be from the Lord.

• A job or promotion that promises wealth but steals your time with God and your family.

These counterfeit blessings can look like:

God’s blessings will never contradict His Word or lead you to sin. The enemy’s blessings often come with strings attached that pull you away from God’s will. Test everything against Scripture.

God has not left us defenseless against deception. He has given us His wisdom through His Word and the Holy Spirit. In James 1:5, we are promised: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

Through prayer, the Scriptures, and the counsel of mature believers, we can discern whether a blessing is truly from God. When in doubt, go back to His Word, seek His face, and wait on Him. A blessing from God will bring peace, not confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33).

Not every open door is from God, and not every opportunity is a blessing. As followers of Christ, we must evaluate every breakthrough through the lens of God’s Word and ask ourselves: Is this bringing me closer to my Savior? Does it glorify Him or glorify me? When we prioritize God’s glory and our walk with Him, we will experience blessings that are truly good and life-giving.

Remember the words of Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” When God is our first priority, His blessings – perfect and pure – will follow.

• Is it drawing me closer to God?

When you receive a breakthrough, ask yourself these questions:

Let us walk in wisdom, discernment, and humility, always remembering that the greatest blessing we have is Christ Himself.

KEY SCRIPTURE TO REFLECT ON

2 Corinthians 11:14

By anchoring ourselves in God’s Word, we can navigate blessings and breakthroughs wisely, ensuring they draw us closer to our Savior and glorify Him above all else.

Companion Garment

I Am Honored to Pray For You

If my blog has encouraged you or if you have any questions or prayer requests, I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to reach out.

• A relationship that seems perfect but leads you into compromise and away from holiness.

• Success or recognition that feeds your pride and distracts you from giving glory to God.

• Is it glorifying God or glorifying me?

• Does it align with God’s Word and purpose for my life?

In 1 Corinthians 10:31, Paul reminds us: “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

James 1:17

Proverbs 14:12

1 Corinthians 10:31

Matthew 6:33

Romans 12:2

Scriptural Anchor •