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Why is it that so many Christians--denominational or otherwise--blanch at the manifestations of the Holy Spirit? Why would they believe in the virgin birth, but cannot accept a modern day prophet? And, this one really gets me: why do people who pray (even if only in church on Sunday), react as though you are crazy if you say, "I heard God tell me..."?
What happened that our mainstream culture accepts so much that is based upon "The Book," such as laws, wisdom, history but rejects the literal application in our lives today? I know of a denomination which began as a grassroots rebellion at being denied translation of the Bible into their native tongue, and whose evangelical mission arose during an intense prayer worship where the Holy Spirit's presence was so strong that food was brought to the congregation so as not to interrupt or let go of that fervor. Today, would you believe they celebrate eating food during Mass and disdain manifestation of the Holy Spirit! What happened?
I'll tell you what happened: Satan has continued to spread his lies and to gain control of the worldly/fleshly realm. Culture in the "Media Age" is the baggage of perceptual filters that define our reality--if we let it. And what is the only antidote? The Word of God! Which words, you may ask? All of them! If the Bible says Jesus cast out demons possessing a man--you'd better believe that demons existed then and they exist today! If the Bible says that the Holy Spirit is sent to be our Helper and brings gifts of prophecy, tongues, healing, teaching, etc. then CLAIM THEM! How can it be that the vast majority think you are crazy, self-deluded and possibly demon-possessed if you speak or pray in tongues when the Bible only describes such in connection with the Holy Spirit (hey, isn't He one of that Trinity thing?). I've always liked the line my father-in-law paraphrased from a preacher: "If speaking in tongues is of the devil, why aren't they doing it in bars? You know those places are full of unGodly people in Satan's grip!"
So, do the Church a favor: the next time you hear that small, still voice when you are praying, or receive a vision, or a conviction that you know comes from God, tell everybody that "God spoke to me and told me this thing." Tell your pastor, your cell group, your children, even <gasp!> your co-workers!
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