What is Theophany?
Theophany is a term derived from the Greek words “theos” (God) and “phaino” (to appear), meaning “an appearance or manifestation of God.” In Scripture, Theophany refers to times when God made Himself visible or perceptible to human beings in a tangible, though often symbolic or partial, way.
However, it’s important to note that these manifestations were never the full revelation of God’s essence. As God told Moses, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live” (Exodus 33:20, NIV). Because of humanity’s sinful nature, direct exposure to God’s full glory would result in death.
Instead, God used various forms and symbols to reveal Himself in ways that people could handle. These were not illusions but real moments where God broke into human history to communicate His will, confirm His covenant, or guide His people.
Examples of Theophanies in the Bible:
- The Burning Bush
God appeared to Moses in a flame of fire from within a bush, which was not consumed by the fire. God spoke directly to Moses from the bush, commissioning him to lead Israel out of Egypt (Exodus 3:2-6, NIV). - The Man Who Wrestled with Jacob
Jacob wrestled with a man all night, and later declared, “It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared.” (Genesis 32:24–30, NIV). This mysterious figure is often understood to be a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. - Melchizedek, King of Salem
He appears to Abraham with bread and wine and blesses him. The Book of Hebrews later identifies Melchizedek as a type of Christ, without beginning or end (Genesis 14:18–20; Hebrews 7:1–3, NIV). - The Fourth Man in the Fire
When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were thrown into a fiery furnace, a fourth figure appeared with them, described by King Nebuchadnezzar as “like a son of the gods” (Daniel 3:25, NIV). - Pillar of Cloud and Fire
During the Exodus, God led Israel by a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night, visibly manifesting His guidance and protection (Exodus 13:21–22, NIV). - The Call of Samuel
God personally called the boy Samuel, and later, “the LORD continued to appear at Shiloh, and there He revealed himself to Samuel through His word” (1 Samuel 3:10, 21, NIV). - Ezekiel’s Vision of God’s Glory
In Ezekiel 1, the prophet sees a dramatic vision of God’s glory, including wheels within wheels and a throne above a crystal expanse. This is considered one of the most vivid Theophanies in Scripture (Ezekiel 1:26–28, NIV).
Does Theophany Still Happen Today?
When Jesus Christ came into the world, He was not just another Theophany—He was the ultimate revelation of God. Jesus was not a partial appearance but the full embodiment of God in human form.
“For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form” (Colossians 2:9, NIV).
Before Christ, humanity could not see God’s fullness because sin created a barrier. But through Jesus’ death and resurrection, that barrier has been removed. Christ, by shedding His blood, took away the sin that kept humanity distant from God.
Now, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, God lives in those who believe in Christ. Jesus affirmed this Himself:
“Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father… I am in the Father, and the Father is in me” (John 14:9–11, NIV).
Because of Christ, we can now approach God with boldness:
“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Hebrews 4:16, NIV).
So, Can You See God Today?
Not in a physical burning bush or cloud—but through the person of Jesus Christ and the presence of the Holy Spirit, God is fully accessible. To know Jesus is to know God. There is no other way to reach the Father:
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6, NIV)
How Do You Respond to This?
You can receive this grace today by turning to Jesus Christ. Accepting Him is not about religion but about a restored relationship with your Creator.
If you’re ready, call on Jesus today, and He will come into your life.
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13, NIV)
God bless you.
Please share this message with others.
And if you’d like help receiving Jesus into your life, feel free to contact us at the number provided below. We’d love to walk with you.
Which Holy City Did Satan Take Jesus To?
In Matthew 4:5–7 (ESV), we read:
“Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written,
“He will command his angels concerning you,” and “On their hands they will bear you up,
lest you strike your foot against a stone.”’
Jesus said to him, ‘Again it is written, “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.”’”
1. What Is the Holy City Referred To?
The “holy city” mentioned here is Jerusalem—not the Heavenly Jerusalem described in Revelation, but the earthly Jerusalem located in Israel. Though it is called “holy” due to its covenantal and prophetic significance in the history of God’s people (e.g., Psalm 48:1-2), it is still part of the current fallen world. Therefore, Satan is not barred from accessing it.
Theological Note:
The term “holy” (Greek: hagios) in this context refers to the city’s religious identity, not its moral or spiritual perfection. Earthly Jerusalem has been both the site of divine worship and of rebellion (Isaiah 1:21). Thus, Satan’s presence there is not contradictory to scripture.
2. Why Would Satan Bring Jesus to the Temple?
Satan led Jesus to the pinnacle of the Temple, likely the southeastern corner overlooking the Kidron Valley—a dizzying height—hoping to tempt Jesus to test God’s protection by performing a dramatic leap.
Satan even quotes scripture, Psalm 91:11–12 (ESV):
“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.
On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.”
But he misuses the verse, removing it from its context. Psalm 91 is a psalm of trust, not a license for testing God.
Jesus answers with Scripture properly interpreted:
Deuteronomy 6:16 (ESV):
“You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.”
Theological Insight:
Satan often tempts not by denying God’s Word but by distorting it—a tactic seen as early as Genesis 3:1–5. Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:1), counters temptation not by personal strength but by submitting to the truth of God’s Word—an example for all believers.
3. Lessons for Believers Today
Satan’s strategy here teaches us something important:
He doesn’t always tempt us in dark, obvious places—but often in holy ones.
In fact, he brought Jesus to the Temple, not a brothel or a pagan temple. Today, many believers fall not in the streets but in the pews—through pride, division, lust, and deception that arise within the church.
1 Peter 5:8 (ESV) warns:
“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”
That’s why we sometimes hear of pastors, ministers, or worship leaders falling into sin—often with other church members, not strangers. Satan knows that temptation is most effective when it comes in disguised holiness.
This reflects Paul’s warning in 2 Corinthians 11:14–15 (ESV):
“Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness.”
4. What About the New Jerusalem?
Some may wonder if Satan could ever access the Heavenly Jerusalem. The answer is a firm no.
Revelation 21:2–3, 23–27 (ESV) describes the New Jerusalem as a holy city that will descend from heaven after the final judgment:
“Nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (v. 27)
This city is holy in both name and nature—no sin, no darkness, no devil will ever enter. It represents the eternal dwelling of God with His redeemed people.
Conclusion: Stay Watchful in Holy Places
Jesus didn’t fall into Satan’s trap because He stood firm on the Word of God. For us, the danger is real—temptation doesn’t always look evil, and the church is not exempt from spiritual attacks.
We must be especially discerning within sacred spaces, just as Jesus was in the Temple.
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
— James 4:7 (ESV)
May we remain rooted in scripture, filled with the Holy Spirit, and aware that Satan’s strategy often begins where we feel safest.
May the Lord help us to stand firm. Shalom.
What Did Paul Mean by “Imparting a Spiritual Gift”?
Understanding Romans 1:11 in Biblical and Theological Context
Key Verse:
“I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong.”
—Romans 1:11 (NIV)
Question:
What was the “spiritual gift” Apostle Paul promised the believers in Rome, and how was he planning to give it?
1. Singular, Not Plural: A Specific Gift in View
In Romans 1:11, Paul says “a spiritual gift” (singular), not “spiritual gifts” (plural). This distinction is important. He wasn’t promising to distribute various spiritual gifts like prophecy, tongues, or healing as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:4–11, because those gifts come directly from the Holy Spirit, not from a human minister.
“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.”
—1 Corinthians 12:4 (NIV)
Theologically, Paul understood and taught that spiritual gifts are distributed by the Holy Spirit as He wills (1 Cor. 12:11). Therefore, Paul could not “give” spiritual gifts in that sense. So what did he mean?
2. Paul Meant to Bless Through His Own Spiritual Gift
What Paul was really saying is that he wanted to use the gift God had already placed in him to bless and strengthen the Roman believers. His goal was not to transfer his gift but to minister through it for their spiritual benefit.
This understanding aligns with Paul’s broader theology of the Body of Christ, where each member has different gifts and is called to use them for mutual edification.
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith.”
—Romans 12:6 (NIV)
“To each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.”
—1 Corinthians 12:7 (NIV)
So, when Paul said he longed to impart a spiritual gift, he meant he wanted to minister using his apostolic and teaching gifts, strengthening their faith and deepening their understanding of the gospel.
3. “Imparting” as Serving Others Through Your Gift
The act of imparting is not mystical. It means allowing the gift within you to benefit others. When someone teaches, encourages, or prays with healing power, they are “imparting” their spiritual gift.
“If it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement.”
—Romans 12:7–8 (NIV)
Paul was practicing what he preached: use your gift to build others up in the faith. This is not a one-time transfer but an ongoing work of ministry.
4. Paul’s Broader Mission: All Peoples, All Nations
Paul’s desire to impart his gift wasn’t limited to the Romans. He had the same passion for Gentiles, Jews, Greeks, and non-Greeks:
“I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that I planned many times to come to you… in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles. I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish.”
—Romans 1:13–14 (NIV)
This reflects Paul’s theology of universal mission—a calling to preach and build up all people through the gospel of Jesus Christ.
5. What About You? Are You Using Your Gift?
Every believer in Christ has received at least one spiritual gift (1 Peter 4:10, Romans 12:6–8). These gifts are not meant to be hidden but used to serve others and bring them closer to Christ.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
—1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)
You may not be called like Paul, but your gift matters. Whether it’s encouragement, teaching, giving, or showing mercy—use it.
Conclusion:
Paul’s statement in Romans 1:11 is a beautiful reminder that spiritual gifts are meant to strengthen others, not glorify ourselves. Imparting a gift means serving others through what God has placed in you.
So ask yourself today:
Am I using my spiritual gift to build others in Christ?
May the Lord bless you as you walk in your calling.
Share this message with others to encourage them in their spiritual journey.
What Does It Mean When You Dream About Fishing?
Dreams can be powerful, and sometimes, they carry spiritual significance—especially when they repeat or come with a strong emotional impact. One such dream is about fishing. You may dream of using your hands, a rod, or a net; you might catch small or large fish. While the details may differ, the core message is often spiritual.
1. Fishing as a Symbol of Evangelism
In Scripture, fishing often symbolizes evangelism—reaching people with the good news of Jesus Christ. This connection begins with Jesus’ own disciples.
When Jesus called Simon Peter and his companions—many of whom were professional fishermen—He used their familiar trade to illustrate their new spiritual mission. After performing the miracle of the great catch, Jesus told Peter:
Luke 5:10 (NIV)
“Then Jesus said to Simon, ‘Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.'”
This marked the beginning of a new purpose: drawing people into the kingdom of God, just as they had drawn fish from the sea.
2. Fishing Dreams as a Spiritual Calling
If you are a Christian and you dream about fishing, it could be God’s way of reminding or calling you to share your faith. Evangelism isn’t limited to preachers or pastors. Every believer is called to be a witness.
Matthew 28:19–20 (NIV)
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you…”
God often uses ordinary means to communicate deeper truths. A dream about fishing might be a divine prompt—especially if you’ve felt a burden for others or have been hesitant to share your faith.
3. The End Times and the Net of Judgment
Fishing also appears in Jesus’ parables about the end of the age. In Matthew 13, He likens the kingdom of heaven to a net gathering all kinds of fish:
Matthew 13:47–50 (NIV)
“Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish.
When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away.
This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
This parable reveals that spiritual fishing is not only about bringing people to God—it’s also about eternal judgment. It is both an invitation and a warning.
4. If You Are Not Yet Saved…
If you are not yet a believer and you’ve had this kind of dream, it might be that God is calling you. Christ is reaching out to you, inviting you into a relationship with Him. The dream could be a divine message that your life has purpose—and part of that purpose includes reaching others.
John 6:44 (NIV)
“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them…”
No matter your background—whether you’re Muslim, Hindu, agnostic, or come from a traditionalist belief—God can speak to anyone. If you dream about fishing or the cross, consider it a spiritual invitation. Jesus is calling you to follow Him and be part of His mission.
Romans 10:9 (NIV)
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Final Encouragement
Dreams about fishing aren’t just interesting—they can be deeply meaningful. If you are a Christian, they may reflect your spiritual role in bringing others to faith. If you’re not yet saved, it could be a personal invitation from God to start a new life with Him.
May the Lord bless you and guide you as you seek His voice.
What Does It Mean to Dream of a Cross?
Dreaming of a cross is not something to ignore. Spiritually, it is often a divine message—a personal call from Jesus Christ.
1. If You Are Not Yet Saved
If you have not yet come to know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, this dream could be God’s way of reaching out to you. The cross represents the heart of the Christian faith: God’s love expressed through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ.
John 3:16 (NIV)
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Through His death on the cross, Jesus took upon Himself the punishment for our sins, offering us forgiveness and eternal life.
Ephesians 2:16 (NIV)
“And in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.”
This dream could be God urging you to respond to this gift. Open your heart. Outside of Christ, there is no true peace, lasting hope, or eternal life.
Romans 6:23 (NIV)
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
If you’re ready to receive salvation, you can begin with a simple prayer of repentance—acknowledging your sin and accepting Jesus as your Savior.
>> Click here to be guided in a Prayer of Salvation.
2. If You Are Already Saved
If you are already walking with Christ, dreaming of a cross may be a deeper call to discipleship. It’s a reminder to carry your cross daily, to die to self, and to live fully for Him.
Luke 9:23–24 (NIV)
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.”
The cross in your dream may be calling you to grow in spiritual maturity—to surrender more, love deeper, and commit wholeheartedly. It can also symbolize trials you may face for the sake of Christ, and your calling to endure them faithfully.
Galatians 2:20 (NIV)
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Whether you’re just encountering Christ or have known Him for years, dreaming of a cross is deeply significant. It is an invitation to look to Jesus—either for salvation or for deeper devotion.
Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)
“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross…”
May the Lord bless you.
If this message has touched your heart, share it with someone—it might be the hope they need today.
What does it mean to dream of being given a Bible?
The Bible is the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16), the only book that contains the complete truth about God, humanity, and salvation. It reveals the way to eternal life through Jesus Christ (John 14:6). Therefore, if you dream of being given a Bible, understand that this is a divine message. The devil can never lead you to a place where you will find the true light of life (John 8:12).
As Psalm 119:105 (NIV)says,
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
This highlights how God’s Word illuminates the way for us, guiding us through life’s challenges and helping us walk in truth.
If you have not yet come to know Christ, understand that God loves you and desires to lead you into all truth (John 16:13). That’s why you may have dreamed of receiving a Bible, no matter your background—whether you are a Muslim, Hindu, pagan, or from any other faith. The Bible teaches that Jesus loves you and wants to save you (John 3:16). All you need to do is accept Him into your life, and He will guide you into all truth and provide answers to the questions of your life (John 14:6).
Once you accept Christ, seek out the Bible and start reading it as soon as possible. The Bible is God’s living Word, and as you read it, it will begin to transform your life (Hebrews 4:12). It is also important to surround yourself with trustworthy teachers of God’s Word who can help you understand it more deeply (2 Timothy 2:15).
Remember, you’re not here by chance. This website you’ve found is not accidental; it has been placed here for you, offering teachings that will help you understand the Bible and its message more clearly. Visit regularly and allow God’s Word to speak to your heart (www.wingulamashahidi.org).
May the Lord bless you.
Share this good news with others, so they too can experience the transforming power of God’s Word.
Does God Have a Gender?
Question:
Does the Lord God have a gender like human beings do?
Answer:
According to the Bible, God created “man” in His image — not “people” collectively.
Genesis 1:27 (NKJV) says:
“So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”
Here, “man” refers to humanity, but initially, God created Adam first (Genesis 2:7). Adam was created male, and later, Eve was formed from Adam’s rib (Genesis 2:21–22).
This shows that the original human — Adam — reflected the full image of God.
Adam, being male, bore traits of God’s nature.
However, God is not a human being. He is Spirit (John 4:24) and does not have a biological body or gender in the way humans do.
Human gender involves physical differences (like reproductive organs), which do not apply to God.
Instead, Scripture consistently reveals that God has masculine characteristics. His nature is presented through roles like Father, King, and Husband — roles culturally and biblically associated with leadership, authority, protection, and provision.
Key Points from Scripture:
- God as Father
Matthew 6:9 (NKJV):
“In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.”
- God as Husband
Isaiah 54:5 (NKJV):
“For your Maker is your husband, The Lord of hosts is His name; And your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel; He is called the God of the whole earth.”
- God as Spirit
John 4:24 (NKJV):
“God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”
Nowhere in Scripture does God take on a feminine identity. Although both male and female humans are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), God’s self-revelation remains consistently masculine throughout the Bible.
Additionally, it’s important to understand that the terms “Father” and “Husband” are relational descriptions. They express God’s covenant relationship with His people, emphasizing His love, protection, authority, and provision.
Thus, while God transcends human biology, His revealed character is male-oriented.
A Call to Salvation
Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
If not, don’t delay. We are living in the final days. Jesus could return at any moment, as the Bible warns in Matthew 24:44 (NKJV):
“Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
When the final trumpet sounds, where will you stand?
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of God’s eternal Kingdom.
Share this message with others — these are good tidings meant for all.
If you would like to receive Jesus Christ today, we are here to help guide you through this life-changing decision.
Contact Information:
- Phone: +255789001312 or +255693036618
May the Lord bless you abundantly.
Stay tuned for more teachings and biblical insights!
Is the Earth Round, a Sphere, or Flat Like a Plate? What Does the Bible Say?
QUESTION:
Is the Earth round, a sphere, or is it flat like a plate covered by glass at the top?
ANSWER:
Before we answer, it is crucial to understand the nature and purpose of the Bible.
The Bible is not a scientific textbook, nor is it intended to serve as a manual for physics, business, or technology. The Bible’s primary purpose is to reveal the nature, character, and plan of God for humanity and to teach mankind how to live in relationship with Him (2 Timothy 3:16-17, NIV):
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
(2 Timothy 3:16-17, NIV)
Thus, expecting the Bible to provide detailed explanations about the physical universe, like a science textbook, is a misunderstanding of its purpose. Its focus is spiritual rather than scientific.
Some people try to find business principles such as “demand and supply” or “cash flow” in the Bible. However, the Bible was not designed to teach business economics. For such matters, it is wise to seek formal education. Likewise, scientific principles — like atomic structure, types of rocks, the functions of blood cells, or the invention of medicines — are subjects developed through human investigation and are not explained in Scripture.
It is true that the Bible occasionally mentions aspects of the natural world — but when it does, it is always to illustrate or support a spiritual truth, not to serve as scientific documentation.
Moreover, Scripture makes it clear that worldly wisdom and divine wisdom are very different:
“Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?”
(1 Corinthians 1:20, NIV)
In short, God’s wisdom surpasses human reasoning, and human achievements, however great, are limited in light of His divine understanding.
What About Technology and Modern Discoveries?
Many modern technologies — such as the Internet, social media, artificial intelligence, and future innovations — are not directly mentioned in the Bible. However, the Bible prophesied a time when knowledge would rapidly increase:
“But you, Daniel, roll up and seal the words of the scroll until the time of the end. Many will go here and there to increase knowledge.”
(Daniel 12:4, NIV)
Thus, although specific inventions are not listed, the increase in knowledge and global exploration was foretold long ago.
Now, Returning to the Main Question:
Is the Earth a sphere, a circle, or a flat plate covered by glass?
While the Bible does not give a full scientific description of Earth’s shape, it does provide strong hints.
One key passage is:
“He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth, and its people are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like a canopy and spreads them out like a tent to live in.”
(Isaiah 40:22, NIV)
The term “circle” used here (Hebrew word: chug) can mean a round shape or spherical form. It implies that the Earth is circular, not flat, and not covered with a physical glass dome.
Additionally, when we consider the physical evidence God has allowed humans to discover through science — through astronomy, satellite imagery, and physics — we now know that the Earth is a sphere (or more accurately, an oblate spheroid).
In God’s providence, human beings have been given the ability to study and understand creation, confirming what Scripture hints at.
Final Reflection:
While scientific discovery is a gift from God, the Bible’s main purpose remains to guide humanity into salvation and a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ.
We must therefore respect both realms: use science for understanding the natural world and use the Bible for knowing God’s heart and His will for our lives.
May the Lord bless you and lead you into all truth.
Please share this teaching with others!
If you would like to receive Jesus Christ into your life or need spiritual assistance, feel free to contact us:
Contact: +255789001312 or +255693036618
God bless you richly!
Because an Excellent Spirit Was in Him
Greetings to you in the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I welcome you to learn with me today about the words of life.
In these perilous times, filled with deception and false teachings, it is essential for us to examine ourselves closely. Ask yourself: What kind of spirit have you allowed into your life? The way you live and behave reflects the spirit within you. If your life is driven by worldly desires, then the spirit of the world is influencing you.
1 Corinthians 2:12 (NIV)
“What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us.”
If your actions are sinful—if you struggle with things like theft or dishonesty—know that these are the results of a spirit working in you. It’s important to examine the nature of the spirit that influences your life.
The Bible speaks of Daniel as a man who had an excellent spirit.
Daniel 6:3 (NIV)
“Now Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.”
What does it mean to have an “excellent spirit”? This spirit is not just ordinary—Daniel’s spirit was outstanding and beyond the usual standard. The term “excellent” implies superiority—there are spirits that are not excellent, and in many cases, they are counterfeit spirits. Satan is crafty and deceives people into thinking they have the Holy Spirit when in reality, it is a fake spirit that mimics the original.
Daniel 5:12 (NIV)
“This man Daniel, whom the king called Belteshazzar, was found to have a keen mind and knowledge and understanding, and also the ability to interpret dreams, explain riddles and solve difficult problems. Call for Daniel, and he will tell you what the writing means.”
Daniel’s spirit was exceptional, filled with knowledge, understanding, and wisdom that were beyond natural ability. The Holy Spirit—whom we receive as believers—manifests in us in similar ways, empowering us to live in accordance with God’s will. The evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit is not just speaking in tongues or prophesying; it’s a transformed life marked by holiness, wisdom, and the ability to discern and live out God’s truth.
Daniel 6:4 (NIV)
“At this, the administrators and the satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent.”
Daniel’s life is a powerful example of integrity. Despite constant scrutiny and attempts to find fault in him, no one could accuse him of wrongdoing. His commitment to God and His standards made him blameless in the eyes of the people. This is what having an excellent spirit looks like—a life of integrity, purity, and unwavering devotion to God’s ways.
If you claim to be saved, this excellent spirit should be the same spirit that resides in you. The first evidence of the Holy Spirit’s presence in a believer’s life is holiness—the pursuit of living a life that reflects God’s character.
But why is it that many believers speak in tongues, prophesy, and participate in religious activities, yet there is no evidence of the excellence of the Holy Spirit in their daily lives? It is shocking to hear people claim that living a holy life is impossible, especially when the Word of God makes it clear that holiness is achievable by the power of the Holy Spirit. Yet, some of these same people continue to live worldly lives—compromising in areas like their dress, speech, and behavior, while still claiming to be Christians.
Is this truly the Holy Spirit at work? Or has the spirit within them been corrupted?
The good news is that the excellent spirit—the Holy Spirit—can always be called upon to return or be awakened in your life. Repentance and faith are the keys to experiencing transformation. You must believe that it is possible to live a holy life and surrender to the work of the Holy Spirit in you.
Romans 8:13 (NIV)
“For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.”
You must be willing to turn away from the world and commit yourself to living a life pleasing to God. This requires believing that holiness is not only possible but is expected from every believer. Through the Holy Spirit, you can live a victorious life over sin and be empowered to reflect Christ in all you do.
When you are fully surrendered to God, He will guide you and transform your life, enabling you to live in righteousness. But it requires complete faith, trust, and a rejection of worldly ways.
May the Lord bless you.
Please share this message of hope and transformation with others.
Rebuking Demons and Battling the Powers of Darkness
As Christians, we are called to engage in spiritual warfare. There are three primary meanings when we find ourselves rebuking demons or battling the forces of darkness. These are:
- Experiencing Spiritual Warfare: You may be going through a real spiritual battle.
- God Revealing the Reality of Spiritual Warfare: God might be showing you the nature of spiritual warfare.
- Revealing Your Spiritual Strength: God may be revealing the level of spiritual authority you currently have, or the level you need to attain.
1. Spiritual Warfare
The Bible makes it clear that Christians face a real and ongoing battle against spiritual forces.
Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV) says:
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
This verse emphasizes that the battle we face is not physical but spiritual. As believers, we are engaged in a fight against unseen spiritual forces, including demonic spirits that attempt to influence and control our lives.
Sometimes, these spiritual attacks manifest in dreams. For example, you might dream of being bitten by a snake, and upon waking up, you feel real pain in that area. If this pain persists, it can spread throughout your body, indicating a demonic attack. This aligns with
2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (NIV),where Paul writes:
“The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
If you encounter such attacks, you have the authority in Christ to rebuke them, as it is written in
Luke 10:19 (NIV):
“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”
2. God Revealing the Reality of Spiritual Warfare
Sometimes, you may dream about confronting or rebuking demons. In this case, you’re not necessarily under direct attack, but God may be showing you the reality of spiritual warfare. The enemy’s tactics are real, and while you may not be experiencing them now, they may manifest in the future.
1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV)warns:
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of suffering.”
This is a reminder that as believers, we are to be vigilant and resist the enemy’s attacks by standing firm in the faith.
3. Revealing Your Spiritual Strength
At other times, God may be showing you your current level of spiritual strength. For example, a believer might be saved but feels fear when it comes to casting out demons or praying for others who are oppressed. God might be showing you that He has given you the power and authority to overcome these dark forces.
Mark 16:17-18 (NIV) states:
“And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”
This passage affirms that believers are called to exercise authority over demonic forces. If you feel overwhelmed by spiritual forces, it’s a sign to strengthen your spiritual walk through prayer, holiness, and immersing yourself in the Word of God.
In James 4:7 (NIV),
we are instructed:
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
This is a powerful reminder that our strength comes from God. We must draw near to Him, and through submission to His will, we can resist the devil and make him flee.
Conclusion: Stand Firm in the Lord
In any situation where you find yourself rebuking demons or confronting witches in the name of Jesus, it is a clear indication that it is time to stand firm in your faith. As
1 Corinthians 16:13(NIV) says:
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.”
Satan is your enemy and the enemy of your fellow believers. Therefore, you must resist him at all times by being steadfast in your faith.
However, if you are not saved, now is the time to invite Jesus into your heart.
John 14:6 (NIV) tells us:
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”
Without Christ, you cannot overcome the enemy on your own. Only through the power of Jesus Christ can you find victory.
Romans 10:9 (NIV) reminds us:
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Share this good news with others, encouraging them to stand firm in their faith and walk in the victory Christ has already won.
