This morning the Lord had me in 1 Kings. We find the story of an old King David getting ready to pass the torch of his throne to another.

Behind his back, and without his approval, we see Adonijah claim his throne, throw a party, begin the process of sacrificing, and so on. Listen, deception is usually done in secret.

Here is the jest of it: “Then Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself….” (1 Kings 1:5)

Interesting that his invited guests excluded Nathan the prophet and other loyal people who “belonged” to the King. (1 Kings 1:8)

He convinced many a people he was the new King. However, deception is usually found out eventually, and we see King David learn of all that was going on.

Therefore, He made it known, and clear, who was to receive his throne and who had the legitimate right and approval to take his place.

King David declared Solomon was to take his throne. The sure sign was Solomon riding through the streets on the King’s mule.

Listen, friends, not everyone who says they “are,” ——are. We must not be deceived. Just because someone has a title does not always mean it was given by the Lord. Many, today, are wielding, proudly, illegitimate authority. The devil is in the details.

As part of the royal priesthood, we each are responsible for discerning the spirits with the Lord Jesus. He will reveal to you, and me, the real truth.

Do not fall prey to every voice. Counterfeits are running rampant, and thieves are making their way into the sheepfold. Use your voice to ask questions, reason what you are seeing with Christ, and trust His voice to guide you. Pay attention to details and subtle deceptions.

Stay close to Jesus. You, and I, need the power of the Holy Spirit to see through facades and all illegitimate authority.

None are above Christ Jesus. He is exposing many false authorities in this season. Be careful of following those who have simply “exalted themselves.”

Heed the warnings of the Lord no matter how trivial they seem to be. It will serve you well down the road.