Holy Ghost Hunter
By: Julie A. Eastin
Stories and legends can be heard about this Spirit that indwells within the believers all over the world, but I wanted to see if for myself. I learned of a gathering on Saturday nights in a dimly light sanctuary where the presence of the Spirit has been reported. I went to see if the legends were true.
I found the building easy enough, parked my truck and gathered my gear. As I neared the doors of the building I could hear something that sounded like singing, my heart began to beat faster, the hunt was on! I entered the building. It was empty and smelled of coffee and fruit smoothies, a smell not commonly associated with the Spirit but my gut told me I was on to something. With no one around, I decided to follow the sound of the music. Surely there I would find a possible answer to these claims of the Spirit.
The sound of singing became louder as I moved closer to the door, that I hoped would lead to the sanctuary were the Spirit had been reported. I reached into my bag and felt for my Book, it was there safe, ready to be used. I grabbed the door handle, a chill passed over me, my heart raced as I pulled open the door. There inside was something I had not expected, something so awesome every person should experience it. In there amongst the softened lights and flickering candles were believers, hands raised in worship.
It was true…
The legends, the stories, they could not be denied. The Spirit was there and a peace I cannot describe in words was to be felt! Of course there will be those who will say that this was all in my mind, those who will know first hand the experience I had, and those who will continue the hunt for the Holy Spirit.
In today’s world the paranormal is glamorized and it is cool to go on a “ghost” hunt. But these types of things often lead us in to very bad situations and as Halloween approaches many will find themselves following the lead of the popular T.V show “Ghost Hunters”. But what does the Bible say about the paranormal or a haunting and is there such a thing as ghosts?
It is very common to hear people speak of haunting or paranormal experiences and the Bible too talks and warns of these types of happenings:
“And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.” (2 Corinthians 11:14–15 NIV)
Although my opening story speaks of “hunting” a spirit in all reality the only ghost we should be seeking is the Holy Spirit. Some may try to dispute this by talking about instances in which “ghosts” act in a “positive” way or talk of psychics that are there to help. It is so important to remember that the goal of demons is to deceive and to take us as far away from our relationship with Christ as possible and may be the explanation of “ghostly” activity today.
John 10:10 says: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
So as Halloween approaches and the world becomes aware of the paranormal, let’s make the only ghost we hunt for be the Holy Ghost. Seek the truth about the spirit world by communing with God and studying His Word!
From all of us at ReVo, have a safe and Holy Spirit filled holiday!