Receive

When we receive a teaching, we also receive the teacher. When we receive Jesus Christ's teachings, we also receive the Teacher. What we accept and embrace in our mind and spirit as a teaching, we allow to be part of our lives. With regards to any practice that is outside of Christian living, we must seriously, carefully, introspectively, and prayerfully discern what God's mind is on a teaching that is not directed by him. The bottom line is that if your spirit is unsettled and your peace disturbed, the teaching or practice may be against God's plan. If you are confused and unclear about a teaching or practice, this is automatically a red flag. Rushing in and ignoring God's Spirit is ignorance, not wisdom. You do not have to make a decision right away. Wait on God, and he will direct your decision. A good rule to consider is that if you don't know, don't go! Should I accept any or all of this practice and teaching? This brings us to the next level, which may give some more clarity: is any of this practice or teaching redeemable?

Redeem

To redeem a practice or teaching means that we carefully consider its usable parts. To redeem in this regard means that careful work needs to be done in order to discover the usable parts of a teaching or practice. The Christian must research prayerfully, with a guarded mind and spirit, and openly, honestly, and actively seek God's direction. The Holy Spirit leads us into all truth. If there is anything that is contrary to this truth then it should not be considered redeemable and therefore must be rejected. If any part is redeemable then clear guidelines must be established before embracing any teaching or practice.

• What is emotionally, spiritually, and physically safe for me to accept?
• Is it consistent with God's spirit of healing?
• Am I choosing to redeem this practice or teaching for quick relief of pain?
• Do I know that God is leading me through the Holy Spirit's guiding presence to accept this teaching or practice?

If after everything is carefully evaluated there remains confusion, lack of clarity, and disturbance of inner tranquility, then your answer should be No! Never redeem a teaching or practice based solely upon the recommendation of another person, even a Christian. To be continued.