Social scientists refer to our current predicament as “psychic overload.” So much comes at us that we cannot adequately process it. We have only so much time, energy, and desire to filter all the stuff that inundates us. The more and the faster it comes, the less the chance we will filter it.

Now this works OK for advertisers’ claims about carpet sweepers or detergents. We believe the pitch, try the products, and then simply discontinue their use if we discover the claims to be bogus.

However, we cannot be this cavalier about information pertaining to our faith. We must scrutinize such information carefully before we believe and act upon it. God’s Word compels us to be discerning and “wise as serpents” (Matthew 10:16, KJV).

Admittedly this is difficult, especially when the bearers of such information proclaim they are Christian. We are tempted to believe, accept, share, and act on their data without much thought. What they declare in their magazines or TV programs resonates with a kind of instant authority, especially when compared to the many anti-Christian, secular voices. In short, we trust that it is rock-ribbed and reliable.

The unfortunate reality is that there are “tares among the wheat” (Matthew 13:25, KJV). Clothed in Christian garments, some charlatans and deceivers present a fictitious Christian message. Even more prevalent are sincere messengers who confidently espouse information that seems convincing but is simply false.

When it comes to our faith, we are admonished to pause and subject information to a brief “truth test”: Does it concur with God’s Word? Is it consistently believed by the Universal Church? Might the communicator have something to gain by convincing folks of this message? What is the messenger’s basis of authority? When discussing it with my Christian friends or pastor, what sort of consensus emerges?

Of course, the ultimate test is prayerful openness to the Holy Spirit. We can without a doubt rely upon His wise counsel and gentle leading at all times. He will help us sift incoming information, capture the essence of truth, and apply that truth to our lives in the best possible way. With the Holy Spirit as “player-coach” in our lives, we are people most blessed. —jj