One lesson I’ve learned in life and unfortunately learned the hard way is not everybody who's walking with you is actually for you. I know that may be a hard pill to swallow for some of you but let that sink in for a moment.
The reality is sometimes not all times, the people who smile the biggest, show up the most, or say all the right things are the very ones who are quietly hoping you don’t go any further than you already have. They’re clapping on the outside—but secretly cringing on the inside when you win. Now I know I can’t be the only one who’s discerned them. The world calls them haters. You follow me now?
It’s a hard truth to swallow, but a necessary one: you have to be discerning about who's in your circle. Everyone around you isn’t cheering because they love you—some are just close enough to study you, use you, or even sabotage you.
Enter in Judas. Let’s talk about Judas for a second.
From the outside looking in, he was one of the twelve. One of Jesus’ “inner circle.” He walked with Jesus. Ate with Jesus. Did life with Jesus. But his heart? It wasn’t aligned. Somewhere along the way, jealousy, greed, or who knows what else took over—and he betrayed the very One who trusted him.
Of course, Jesus already knew that Judas was put in place for such a time as this but what’s scary is that no one else saw it coming. The other disciples didn’t pick up on it. He blended in. He played his part. He even kissed Jesus on the cheek as a sign of betrayal (Luke 22:47-48). Imagine that—a fake sign of affection used as a weapon. Only a twisted individual could come up with something so contradistinctive. I mean why a kiss? Why not a handshake? I digress that’s for another study.
Anywho, that’s real life today. Some folks get close just to gather information. They act supportive, but they’re rooting for your downfall behind closed doors. They want your spotlight but don’t want to go through your struggle. They want your gift but not your grind. They desire certain elements of your life but have no idea of the warfare fought just to keep a sane mind on a daily basis.
That’s why discernment is critical. I will repeat discernment is critical! Discernment isn’t just about sensing bad vibes and off energy—it’s about having the wisdom to pause and pray before handing people front-row seats to your life. Your inner circle should be few. Pause and pray should come naturally as we encounter people, especially those who approach us first. Discernment is about paying attention to patterns, not just words. The actions of a person speak louder that any word they can speak. Start noticing people and ask yourself “Does this person clap when I win in private… or just when they can be seen publicly supporting?” And vice versa, “Does this person clap when I win in public but never support me privately? Hard questions we have to ask ourselves. A true inner circle supporter supports privately and publicly.
It’s okay to be friendly with everyone. I enjoy learning about different cultures so yes, I do have conversations with almost anyone. But inner access? That’s earned. Only a very limited few have inner access and that’s ok. You can love people from a distance and still protect your peace. Elohim Himself is clapping for me, and He is clapping for you. It doesn’t really matter who isn’t clapping.
Jesus knew what Judas was going to do, and He still let it happen—because even betrayal had a purpose. Your betrayal has a purpose as well. It pushed you to pray. But I believe the most important thing a betrayal does is lighten the load, cut the fat, rids the unnecessary weight. Sometimes we need a shaking as a betrayal to lose all the dead weight out of our lives, and we are then at a point where Elohim can get the glory.
So today, take inventory. Who really celebrates you? Who shows up with no agenda? Who supports you when you’re shining and not just when you’re struggling? And who seems a little too close, a little too curious, and a little too quiet when things are going well? Keep your circle rooted in real love, not fake loyalty.
Thanks for being with me this week. Discernment is not a popular topic but it’s a very necessary one. Be discerning. How do you do that? By pausing and praying! Share this blog with someone in your inner circle.
A blessed soul is A Well-Fed Soul!
Yes...Discernment!
Praise GOD! Pause and PRAY! ✝️🙏🏽