A life changing experience
I have lived through a life changing experience this week end.
Previous to Saturday I had begun to leave behind the belief in the supernatural. That the things about the spirit realm I was taught as part of the modern contemporary pentecostal church was based in hyper faith.
I still am appalled by the hype and formula like way these churches respond to God how ever I see now that I don’t have to throw the baby out with the bath water.
I can not describe the specifics as it is an intimate part of some one else’s journey but I can say it involved the darkness of the demonic realm and the all powerful light filled authority of Jesus.
I could write a book on what I learned from this experience but here is the dot point version
- That as a follower of Christ I am called to set the captives free
- The spiritual gifts talked about in the bible are just as real and relevant today as they were when Jesus walked the earth and they must be use with Love.
- That there is a time for loud war like prayer and but there is also a time for quiet reflection and meditation. Like everything in life it is about balance and listening to the still small voice.
- That love really does cast out all fear.
- That there is real power in the name of Jesus.
- I love being there at the birth of some ones relationship with Christ and it is a real privilege.
- That God will use those who are willing to GO not because of their ability but for their willingness to just go.
- That He really is strong when I am weak
- God can not be put in a box and their is no formula that he responds to.
- The devil is a foul creature who, with his demons, is intent on destroying as many people as he can BUT he MUST and DOES submit to Jesus Christ.
- The church (or Body of Christ) in action is an alive and powerful group of people not defined by denomination, race, monetary status, age or a building but instead a group of like minded people bound together by God’s love and a desire show people that love.
- God loves me just the way I am warts and all
I write this post as much for me as for others so that when the excitement fades and life returns to “normal” I can look back and remember these things and praise my God for his goodness and grace.
If you would like a more theological explanation of our experience check out Matt’s blog at shmatt.com he is much more able to explains the details correctly than I.