DanielSample

The place of overwhelming spiritual encounter is often viewed with caution.

Such things may be okay in a monastery, but as far as worship in church is concerned; ‘No, thanks! Not here’.

Good religious stock tend to be either embarrassed or afraid of uncontrolled displays of emotion and spiritual encounter.

But, not only does the Holy Spirit sometimes come powerfully, but the whole of Daniel 10 is taken up describing such an event.

Abraham was overwhelmed in a deep sleep when God made a covenant with him; Genesis 15. Ezekiel seems to have had several such experiences. Jesus himself was transfigured on the mountain. John collapsed ‘as if dead’ in Jesus’ presence.

Daniel describes what happened to him; …I was left alone, … I fell into a deep sleep, my face to the ground … ‘I feel very weak … my strength is gone and I can hardly breathe’ …

These interventions of the Spirit are like waves of the sea, sometimes powerful and dramatic, at other times quietly lapping our feet.

Pastors generally give this advice;

First, we should seek the Lord, not experiences.

Second, if something like this happens to you, or to someone you know, then focus on loving Christ and obeying him more.

Third, what matters is not the experience, but the outcomes. Or as Jesus said, ‘you shall know them by their fruit’.

Prayer: Lord may we be strong in the scriptures, strong in the life of the Spirit, and strong in following you. Amen