I have been riveted by some things I have heard said among Christians. They are words that sound spiritual for sure...sort of like something in the Bible,but they are not.

Over the years I have had dreams that seemed like God was warning me of something, twice in particular. Both times the dreams left me fearful and paranoid.

I have looked to people over the years to speak into my life. Many times their words have brought great encouragement to my heart. I was strengthened and built up in my faith.

Yet, it is not always this way. I have received hard words from people. Yet, I knew God was in it. The word, though difficult to to hear,challenged me to make a wrong right between my self and another and ultimately God.

Then there are the hard words when God is no where near it. It discourages and my heart feels very heavy.Sometimes all I feel is panic threatning to rise and confusion dancing all over my heart.

How can we know when something we have heard or dreamt is from God?

You will know it by its fruit. In the book of James chapter 3:13-17- it is laid out for us. Humility is present always. What is given from a heart that is holding onto bitter envy and selfish ambition breed wisdom that is earthly and feelings of guilt,confusion and anxiety follow quickly on its heals.

Yet a word that is truly from God will never contridict what He says in His word. James 3:17 says that wisdom from God is " first of all pure; then peace loving, considerate,submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere."

If someone comes to you claiming they have a "word" for you, remember the fruit that anything that God brings to us will possess fruit which reflect Christ. Jesus delivered some pretty tough words to people, but humility was always present. His life was full of good deeds, done in humility. It is out of a heart filled with His love that life giving words are spoken.

That dream I had years ago haunted me and scared me deeply. A wise person reminded me to look at the fruit this dream was producing. Peace was absent. It produced only confusion. I dismissed this as nothing more then a nightmare.

As comments or words are received, they need to be thought and prayed through carefully. If it has grabbed your heart and emotions, examine the fruit which becomes evident. Then you will be able to discern how to respond.