How to tell if a dream is from God or the enemy

How to Tell if a Dream Is from God or the Enemy – A Biblical Guide

      Dreams can be powerful and mysterious. Throughout Scripture, God used dreams to speak to His people—Joseph, Daniel, and even Pharaoh received divine messages through dreams. But the Bible also warns that not every dream is from God. Some can come from our own minds, and others may be influenced by the enemy. So how can a believer discern the source of a dream? Here are several biblical keys to help.

1. Does the Dream Align with God's Word?

      The first and most important test for any spiritual experience is whether it aligns with Scripture. God's voice will never contradict His Word. In 2 Timothy 3:16, Paul writes, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." If a dream promotes sin, deception, or anything contrary to biblical truth, it’s not from God.

      For example, if a dream encourages unforgiveness, pride, or lust, it’s likely influenced by the enemy or the flesh. In contrast, a dream from God may convict you of sin, lead you to repentance, or provide insight consistent with His character.

2. What Fruit Does the Dream Produce?

      Jesus taught in Matthew 7:16, “By their fruit, you will recognize them.” This principle applies to dreams as well. What emotional and spiritual fruit does the dream produce?

      Dreams from God usually result in peace, conviction, encouragement, or clarity. They might challenge you, but they won’t leave you feeling hopeless or condemned. Dreams from the enemy often bring fear, confusion, anxiety, or distraction from God’s purpose. If the dream torments you or pulls you away from Christ, it's not from the Lord.

3. Does the Dream Glorify God or Self?

      God's messages will always point to Him, not to ourselves. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." A dream that promotes self-glorification, pride, or selfish ambition is suspect. On the other hand, dreams from God may call you to service, sacrifice, or dependence on Him.

4. What Is the Spirit Behind the Dream?

      The apostle John urges believers to “test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1). In prayer, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the source of the dream. The Holy Spirit brings peace, truth, and clarity. If the dream carries a spirit of fear, accusation, or darkness, it may be a demonic attempt to deceive or discourage you.

      Pay attention to the tone and nature of the dream: Does it leave you feeling closer to God, or further from Him?

5. Does the Dream Confirm What God Has Already Been Saying?

      God often confirms His messages in multiple ways. In 2 Corinthians 13:1, Paul says, "Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses." If a dream repeats something God has been showing you in Scripture, prayer, or through wise counsel, it may well be from Him.

6. Does It Draw You Closer to Jesus?

      Jesus said, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." (John 10:27). A true dream from God will deepen your relationship with Christ. It will inspire you to seek Him more, obey Him more fully, or trust Him in a new way. If a dream leads you away from Christ, confuses your faith, or causes you to question God’s goodness, it's not from Him.

      God still speaks through dreams today, but not every dream is divine. Discernment, prayer, and a strong foundation in Scripture are essential for understanding what God is saying—or what the enemy is trying to do. Always take your dreams before the Lord. Ask Him for wisdom (James 1:5) and trust that He will lead you into truth.