INSPIRATIONAL: Guarding Against Deception: A Call to Discernment

by: Linda Kirby/WGON

There’s a new trend circulating—videos that claim AI is “trying” to reveal hidden truths without saying them outright. In these clips, AI is instructed to answer questions using code words. For example, if it wants to say “yes” but isn’t allowed to, it says “apple.” The result? Viewers are led to believe whatever the video creator wants them to believe. It’s a subtle manipulation, and many fall for it—hook, line, and sinker.

People are quick to trust a machine, yet slow to believe in the one true God and His Word. But truth isn’t found in algorithms or artificial intelligence. It’s found in Scripture. Only God knows the future. Yes, people may make plans, but it is the Lord who determines whether those plans succeed—for His purposes, not man’s. Proverbs 19:21 reminds us, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”

If you’re searching for truth—pure, unfiltered truth—there’s only one place to find it: in God’s Word. His prophecies tell us what’s to come. Man deceives. Machines, programmed by man, carry man’s agenda.

We must be vigilant. Today’s world is saturated with deception, making it harder than ever to discern truth from lies. Jesus warned us plainly in Matthew 24:4: “Take heed that no man deceive you.” That’s not a suggestion—it’s a command.

Demonic influence has long promoted false teachings, but now we face a new challenge: AI. Many trust it more than anything else. If AI is programmed with a counterfeit gospel, those who rely on it may be led astray—or worse, fall away from the faith.

John 8:32 says, “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Knowing Jesus—the Truth—equips believers to recognize and resist deception. And John 8:44 reminds us that Satan is the “father of lies.” Those who reject truth align themselves with him.

We must guard our minds and hearts. Don’t let your eyes or ears absorb deception or ungodly influences—they shape your thoughts and actions. Remember King David: when he looked upon Bathsheba bathing, he didn’t turn away. That single glance led to a cascade of sin and sorrow.

There’s too much evil freely available to behold. Guard your eyes and ears—they are the portals to your heart.