Simple Advice for Complicated Times

Written By Ashton Owens

“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” — 1 John 4:1

Christian leaders should test what they hear, whether it comes from a person, a platform, a trend, a strategy, a prompting, or an AI-generated answer. The goal is not suspicion. The goal is spiritual clarity.

A simple discernment filter:

Scripture: Does this align with God’s Word?
Prayer: Have I brought this before the Lord?
Motive: Am I seeking wisdom or just speed?
Counsel: Have I submitted this to wise, godly people?
Fruit: What kind of fruit will this produce in me and those I lead?

Today’s Reflection
Who are the trusted voices in my life who help me test what I am hearing?

Ashton Owens

Ashton Owens writes about faith, technology, leadership, and discernment in the age of AI. He is the author of Artificial Faith, a project helping Christians think clearly, live wisely, and stay anchored in Scripture as the world rapidly changes.

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