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The above examples that I give cannot be logically explained. We can only receive such as gift. Yet, if we are living in a spiritual sea, we should not be surprised that the Divine Presence, in many ways, is trying to get our attention and help us, more than we often begin to sense. Indeed, if we are essentially spiritual beings living in a sea of Spirit, we should be amazed that we do not sense these subtle impressions of the Spirit much more often than we do.
Last, how do we discern if an impression is of God or not? Scripture teaches: "Even Satan tries to make himself look like an angel of light" (2 Cor. 11.14b, CEV). With spiritual help and practice we grow in discerning what is and is not of God. The darkness can try to imitate the Light, but it cannot impart the comfort, love, and goodness of God. Even as a person who loves us imparts good and comfort, to the extent we allow him or her, so Spirit imparts that of Its essence.
I have not found a "devil behind every bush." Rarely have I sensed an evil presence, throughout the many manifestations to me, which began in childhood. I have discerned such malevolent presences, however. Still, again, we do not need to fear such manifestations, and if we live close to God, we usually without difficulty and quickly sense the difference between negative and positive impressions.
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Recall a time when the Spirit subtlety manifested to you. What did you sense? How did you know the presence was of the Spirit?
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*Charitable contributions would be appreciated to assist Brian in the continuance of his work of ministry. For contributions, contact Brian at barukhattah@embarqmail.com .
*Brian's book of mystical love poetry, An Ache for Union: Oneness with God through Love, can be ordered through major booksellers, or through the Cokesbury on-line store, at www.cokesbury.com .
*Brian K. Wilcox lives with his two beloved dogs, St. Francis and Bandit Ty, in Southwest Florida. He serves the Christ Community United Methodist Church, Punta Gorda, FL. Brian is vowed at Greenbough House of Prayer, a contemplative Christian community in South Georgia. He lives a contemplative life and inspires others to experience a more intimate relationship with Christ. Brian advocates for a spiritually-focused Christianity and renewal of the focus of the Church on addressing the deeper spiritual needs and longings of persons, along with empathic relating with other world religions, East and West. Brian has an independent writing, workshop, and retreat ministry, for all spiritual seekers.
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