Pastor Chris,
I have always gotten the most powerful Devine sensations When I think about God. I also tend to get them when I hear stories of near death experiences both good and bad. It’s like a wierd tingling sensation that feels good but I am soon bursting forth with tears and emotions that are indescribable. It is most certainly a presence that is coming closer to me. At times lights will flicker or loud cracks will imitate from furniture. I then get fearful and worried I am opening myself up for evil presences and stop the thoughts immediately. If I pray is it safe to fully confront this presence? It feels like it is healing me but I only allow it to go on for a short amount of time because I am fearful. If you Have any idea wHat This could be I would be very greatful. I have never told anybody else aBout This. Today my mom told me a story about her friend who is battlinG cancer that triggered it. He was being treated for cancer and flatlined. He says the dEvil appeared in the corner oF the room with a well between Them and as it Ran towarDs him he was revived. Thinking about stories like this one and positive near death experiences physically do something to me. Is this Normal and what is happening to me during these times. Thanks for any advice in advance.
~ Anthony
ANSWER
Anthony,
As you have discovered, the spiritual world is real. In answer to your questions please note these things:
1. Jesus will not give you a spiritual experience that will contradict the Bible (Isaiah 40:8; Hebrews 4:12). Remember, Jesus is the
Word of God made flesh (John 1:1-2, 14). The Bible is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Be sure to test any supernatural
experience by the Word of God.
2. Jesus’ miracles were signs that pointed to His deity (John 2:11; 4:54; 6:14). They met needs and led people to put their faith in
Jesus.
3. The enemy can work counterfeit miracles (Exodus 7:11-12; 2 Thessalonians 2:9; Revelation 13:13-14).
4. When a person becomes a child of God, that relationship is forever (John 1:12-13; 3:16; 5:24; 10:27-30). Therefore we do not need
to worry or fear (Matthew 6:25-34).
The enemy will try to use fear to intimidate God’s children, therefore making us ineffective in our witness and our service. He knows that when we are afraid we are not walking by faith. You are in a spiritual war. Be sure to put on the armor of God and use the weapons of God (Ephesians6:10-18).
Jesus often spoke about fear (Matthew 28:10; Mark 4:40; Luke 8:50; John 14:27, etc.). He called people to follow Him and trust Him. We do not need to fear when Jesus is near (Matthew 14:25-33). Faith is the cure for fear (Matthew 14:31) and faith comes through hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17).
When fear hits, the right thing to do is call out to Jesus. That is what Peter did when he started walking on the water, saw the wind, got afraid, and started sinking. In response the Bible says, “Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him” (Matthew 14:31, NIV). James tells us to submit to God first; then “resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).
For additional study on the subject of fear I recommend these two books:
Let it Go!: Breaking Free From Fear and Anxiety (Tony Evans Speaks Out Booklet Series)
From Fear to Faith: Studies in the Book of Habakkuk
~ Pastor Chris