First John 4:1 tells us to test the spirits whether they are from God. We are to prove all things and hold on to that which is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21).

This is true whether it is a dream or vision we received in the night, or something someone said that would affect the course of our lives. Test the prophecy, vision or dream to make sure it lines up with the Word. That makes it impossible for Satan to deceive. The Word of God is the will of God and is not subject to error; you cannot go wrong if you go with the Word. The Apostle Paul said, “Let God’s curse fall on anyone, including us or even an angel from heaven, who preaches a different kind of Good News than the one we preached to you” (Galatians 1:8).

Also, since you are a Christian, you have another aid in knowing whether something is from God, or not. The Holy Spirit will bear witness with your spirit as to what is the truth. He will never reveal to you anything that contradicts the written Word of God.

Many people have received prophecies, visions or dreams believing they were from God, when actually they proceeded from Satan. Satan appeared as an angel of light, fooling them, and they acted on it without ever proving it with the Word of God (2 Corinthians 11:14).

So here’s the bottom line: Always remember all dreams, visions and prophecies must agree with the written Word of God.