We live in an age full of “spirituality.” People talk about energy, vibes, intuition, even supernatural experiences that seem impressive. In the church realm as well, activities can be busy, ministries full, and emotional moments abundant. However, the Bible reminds us that not everything that appears spiritual is truly spiritual. There are things that look holy but are not born from the Holy Spirit. Paul calls it “outward worship” which indeed appears wise but has no power to restrain the desires of the flesh (Colossians 2:23). True spirituality is always rooted in Christ, faithful to the Word, and produces fruit of character that resembles Him.
How do we distinguish them? The Bible gives some clear criteria.
First, test the source. “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). The spirit that moves us must lead us to submit to Jesus, not to experiences that glorify ourselves. Jesus Himself rebuked those who performed ministry achievements without obedience, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 7:21-23).
True spirituality makes us love and obey Christ more, not become more attracted to spiritual sensations.
Second, evaluate its content with the Word. “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). The Holy Spirit never contradicts the inspired Word. Therefore, “test everything; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21). Anything that promotes dishonesty, manipulation, or spiritual pride, even if it appears “spiritual,” is not truly spiritual.
Third, look at the fruit. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). James adds, “But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17).
True spirituality does not stop at a moment, but continues into real changes in character and relationships.
On the other hand, the Bible also warns against false forms of spirituality. There are people who “have a form of godliness but deny its power” (2 Timothy 3:5). There are also forms of self-discipline that are impressive outwardly, yet do not lead to surrender to Christ (Colossians 2:23). Such spirituality can keep us busy with “spiritual things,” but poor in love, humility, and integrity.
How can we practically walk so as not to fall into false spirituality?
- Start with surrender, not seeking sensations. Pray simply, “Lord, align my heart with Your will.” Surrender shifts the focus from self to Christ.
- Read the Word before reading feelings. Allow the Word to be the first filter for ideas and inner impulses.
- Look for fruit, not just excitement. Ask, does this make me more loving, honest, humble, and orderly? “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). If it only shows off oneself, stop and correct the direction.
- Live within a healthy community. Gifts are tested together, counsel is shared, and loving discipline is applied. “Test everything; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21).
- Prioritize small consistent obedience. True spirituality is felt when we keep promises, forgive enemies, and guard our tongues.
Small obedience is more spiritual than big claims without fruit.
In the end, true spirituality always glorifies Christ, submits to the word, builds up others, and produces the fruit of the Spirit. The world may admire the spectacular, but the Kingdom of God establishes the faithful. If today you long to grow spiritually, start by sitting before Christ, opening the word, surrendering your agenda, and then doing one small truth that is already clear. There the Holy Spirit works, quietly but surely.
Lord Jesus, straighten our spiritual compass. Keep us away from spirituality that glorifies self. Fill us with Your Spirit, teach us to test everything by the word, and grow the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, so that You are glorified. Amen.
