Dealing with Spiritual Doubt and False Discernment of Holy Spirit

The concern about the genuineness of one's faith is a weighty matter, and it's not uncommon for believers to struggle with doubts and fears about their spiritual state. Matthew Mead's book "Almost a Christian" does indeed highlight the importance of true conversion and the dangers of mere outward profession. However, it's essential to remember that true faith is not based on feelings or personal experiences, but on the objective promises of God's Word. Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that "all things work together for good to them that love God," which includes the assurance of salvation for those who are in Christ.

This truth addresses the heart of the matter, which is the quest for certainty and assurance of one's faith. The Reformed tradition emphasizes the importance of looking to Scripture as the ultimate authority, rather than relying on personal experiences or feelings. In this sense, one can be sure about their salvation, not because of their own efforts or disciplines, but because of the finished work of Christ on the cross. The voice that prompted you to forgo eating, claiming to be God's voice, is a classic example of the enemy's tactics to deceive and manipulate.

The Bible warns about the dangers of false spirits and the importance of testing every spirit to see if it is from God. In this case, the voice that encouraged you to engage in harmful behavior was not from God, but rather a manifestation of the enemy's schemes to destroy and deceive. The gospel connection is clear: Christ came to set us free from the bondage of sin and death, and to give us life and liberty in Him. As a pastoral concern, it's essential to recognize the devastating effects of such experiences and to point people to the hope and comfort of the gospel, encouraging them to seek help and support from local churches and counseling resources.