Spotting the Smoke: How Not to Be Deceived

In this powerful first episode of our series, Anchored in Truth: Navigating Life with God’s Wisdom, we uncover the reality of deception — both spiritual and everyday — and how it often begins subtly, like smoke before a fire. Learn how the Holy Spirit reveals truth, why staying rooted in Scripture is essential, and discover practical steps to guard your heart, mind, and family.

We’ll explore key Scriptures like 1 John 4:1, Matthew 24:4–5, and Ephesians 6:11 to help you stand firm against the enemy’s schemes and walk boldly in truth.

Talking Points

• The reality of deception in the spiritual and everyday world.
• How deception often starts small, like smoke before fire.
• The role of the Holy Spirit in revealing truth.
• Staying rooted in Scripture to discern lies from truth.
• Practical steps to protect your mind and family from deception: Reading the Word, repentance, practicing self-control, guarding against unforgiveness and anger. 

Scriptures

• 1 John 4:1 — “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
• Matthew 24:4-5 — Jesus warns about deception. “Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many.”
• John 8:32 — “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
• Ephesians 6:11 — “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
• John 8:36 — “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
• 2 Timothy 1:7 — “for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
• Romans 12:2 — “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”