Have you ever felt that deep yearning to connect with God on a more profound level? Many believers long to experience the supernatural, to step into the “realm of the Spirit” where God’s presence is tangible, and His power is evident. This realm isn’t reserved for a select few; it’s accessible to anyone willing to seek God earnestly. Jeremiah 29:13 (NKJV) assures, “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” And James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” Let’s explore how you can draw near to God and shift or ascend into His realm through biblical practices.
UNDERSTANDING THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT
The “realm of the Spirit” refers to a divine dimension where the Holy Spirit operates, impacting both the spiritual and physical aspects of our lives. Romans 8:9 (NKJV) tells us, “But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you.” This verse highlights the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, marking our transition from living according to the flesh to living in the Spirit.
LIVING WITH A HEAVENLY FOCUS
Colossians 3:1-4 states,”If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.”
Applying Colossians 3:1-4 in our daily lives can transform how we think and act. First, we need to seek heavenly things by prioritizing prayer and devotion, starting each day with time spent in God’s Word. Regular worship, both personal and corporate, helps align our hearts with God’s, while serving others mirrors Christ’s love and keeps our focus on what truly matters. By looking for opportunities to help and uplift those around us, we embrace a lifestyle that seeks the things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
Next, setting our minds on heavenly things requires being intentional about our thoughts and limiting distractions that pull us away from God. This can mean reducing time spent on social media or entertainment and memorizing scripture to keep God’s truth at the forefront of our minds. When we find ourselves getting caught up in earthly worries or desires, we can redirect our thoughts to God’s promises and His character. This helps us stay focused on what is truly important and ensures our actions reflect our heavenly mindset.
Finally, living as those who have been raised with Christ means embracing our new identity and rejecting sinful habits. Reminding ourselves that we are new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) helps us live with integrity and depend on Christ’s strength in all we do. Keeping the hope of Christ’s return at the forefront of our minds influences our decisions and encourages us to live in readiness, always prepared to give an account of our lives. Sharing this hope with others and encouraging fellow believers helps us stay steadfast in our faith and grounded in the reality of our life in Christ.
DRAWING NEAR THROUGH MEDITATION
Meditation isn’t just a modern mindfulness trend; it is an important biblical practice that helps us draw closer to God. In Joshua 1:1-9, God commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites, promising His constant presence, success, and victory, while emphasizing the importance of obedience to God’s Word. Joshua was to draw near to God through meditation. Joshua 1:8-9 (NKJV) states, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Here are four ways to meditate on God’s Word and His presence:
RECITING AND REPEATING BIBLICAL TEXTS
Repetition is a powerful tool for imprinting biblical truths in our spirits. By reciting and repeating scriptures, we engage both our minds and spirits, allowing God’s Word to sink deep within us. Try starting with a favourite verse, like John 4:24 (NKJV): “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” Repeat it throughout the day, letting it become a part of your thoughts and prayers.
CONTEMPLATIVE OR BROODING PRAYER
Contemplative prayer also called “brooding prayer” involves focusing on the attributes and names of God, allowing us to dwell on His nature. Spend time thinking about God’s goodness, His faithfulness, and His love. Galatians 5:16 (NKJV) encourages us to “walk in the Spirit.” By meditating on who God is, we align our hearts with His, making it easier to walk in His Spirit.
VISUALIZATION (WORD PICTURES & MENTAL IMPRESSIONS)
Visualization involves perceiving Word pictures and mental impressions granted by the Holy Spirit. Proverbs 23:7 (NKJV) declares, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” As you read a passage, close your eyes and imagine the scene. Picture Jesus calming the storm or healing the sick. This practice helps us connect with the biblical narrative on a deeper level. Ephesians 6:18 (NKJV) advises us to pray “in the Spirit.” Visualization can enhance our prayer life, making our spiritual encounters more vivid and real.
HEART COHERENCE
Heart coherence involves deep breathing exercises as you pray, focusing on the four-letter name of God, YHVH (the Tetragrammaton). Breathe in Yod, exhale Hey, Breathe in Vav and Exhale Hey, declare you are one with Yahweh, you are in Him and He is in you. Declare your love for God, focusing on His majesty and acts. Job 33:4 (NKJV) declares, “The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” The breathing practice coupled with Biblical declarations helps center your heart and mind on God’s greatness and the mysteries of His ways and acts. This form of meditation can bring a sense of peace and closeness to God, helping you step into His realm.
EXPERIENCING GOD’S PRESENCE
I remember a time when I felt distant from God, despite my regular prayers and Bible reading. It was during a particularly challenging period in my life. I decided to try these meditation practices, starting with reciting and repeating Psalms. As I meditated on the scriptures and visualized God’s promises, I began to feel His presence more tangibly. One day, during a contemplative prayer session, I had a profound sense of peace and assurance that God was with me. This experience deepened my faith and brought me closer to Him. Based on Psalms 46:10, we should regularly pause from our busy lives to be still and recognize God’s sovereignty, trusting that He is in control of all circumstances.
PRACTICAL APPROACH
Start small. Choose a verse or a passage to meditate on each day. Set aside a quiet time and space where you can focus without distractions. Incorporate deep breathing exercises to center yourself. Be patient and consistent. Over time, you’ll find that these practices help you draw nearer to God, experiencing His presence in new and profound ways.
The realm of the Spirit is accessible to all who seek God earnestly. By meditating on His Word and focusing on His presence, we can draw near to Him and experience the supernatural in our everyday lives. So, take a step of faith today, and enter into the realm of the Spirit. Now let’s explore the characteristics of the realm of the spirit.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT
Embarking on a journey through the spiritual realm unveils a profound and intricate world, one that is as vibrant as it is mysterious. Understanding the characteristics of this divine domain is crucial for deepening our faith and aligning ourselves with God’s grand design. The Bible illuminates this realm through various dimensions: legalistic nature, judgment, secrets, rank, life and death, sound, light, thought, faith, love, eternity, and spirits. Let’s delve into these aspects, guided by Scripture, to grasp how we can navigate this sacred territory with insight and purpose.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS LEGALISTIC IN NATURE
The spiritual realm operates with a precision akin to a divine courtroom. In Daniel 7:9-10 (NKJV), we witness a celestial court scene where the “Ancient of Days” presides with absolute justice: “I watched till thrones were put in place, and the Ancient of Days was seated; His garment was white as snow, and the hair of His head was like pure wool. His throne was a fiery flame, Its wheels a burning fire; A fiery stream issued and came forth from before Him. A thousand thousands ministered to Him; Ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him. The court was seated, and the books were opened.” This vivid imagery underscores the meticulous nature of divine justice and accountability.
Similarly, Matthew 12:36 (NKJV) highlights the depth of divine scrutiny: “But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgement.” Every action and utterance is meticulously recorded and judged, reflecting the legalistic essence of the spiritual realm. Understanding this encourages us to live with an acute awareness of how our actions and words align with divine justice.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS A REALM OF JUDGEMENT
Judgment is a fundamental aspect of the spiritual realm, highlighting divine order and accountability. 2 Corinthians 5:10-11 (NKJV) asserts, “For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences.” This passage underscores that our earthly actions bear eternal consequences, emphasizing the seriousness of divine judgment.
Faith plays a crucial role in judgment, as Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV) highlights: “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Our relationship with God, grounded in faith, impacts how we are judged and rewarded. Revelation 22:12 (NKJV) echoes this: “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.” Our diligent pursuit of God and faithful living will be recognized and rewarded.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS A REALM OF SECRETS
The spiritual realm is shrouded in mystery, known only to those who are faithful and wise. 1 Corinthians 4:1 (NKJV) states, “Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.” The “mysteries of God” are entrusted to those who faithfully serve Him.
Psalms 25:14 (NKJV) reveals, “The secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him, and He will show them His covenant.” God’s deeper truths are disclosed to those who honor Him. Similarly, Deuteronomy 29:29 (NKJV) acknowledges, “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law.” Some aspects of the spiritual realm remain hidden, known only to God, while others are revealed to guide our lives.
Proverbs 25:2 (NKJV) notes, “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, but the glory of kings is to search out a matter.” This emphasizes that understanding divine secrets requires both divine wisdom and diligent seeking. The coming of Christ, as described in John 3:16 (NKJV), was the ultimate revelation of God’s plan: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” What was once a divine mystery is now revealed for our salvation.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS A REALM OF RANK
Order and rank are intrinsic to the spiritual realm, reflecting a divine hierarchy. Judges 13:5 (NKJV) describes Samson’s unique role: “For behold, you shall conceive and bear a son, and no razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazarite to God from the womb; and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.” This signifies distinct roles and ranks within God’s plan.
1 Peter 2:9 (NKJV) speaks of believers’ spiritual status: “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous light.” This illustrates a divine hierarchy among believers.
Matthew 25:14-30 (NKJV), through the parable of talents, shows varying levels of responsibility and reward, indicating a structured distribution of spiritual authority and responsibility. Revelation 2:28 (NKJV) promises, “And I will give him the morning star,” denoting rewards and ranks assigned in the spiritual realm.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS A REALM OF LIFE AND DEATH
The spiritual realm profoundly influences life and death. Proverbs 18:21 (NKJV) declares, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Our words and actions carry significant spiritual consequences.
Jeremiah 21:8 (NKJV) presents God’s offer of life or death: “Now you shall say to this people, ‘Thus says the Lord: Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death.’” This choice underscores the power of spiritual influence over life and death. John 5:24 (NKJV) promises, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgement, but has passed from death into life.” This passage highlights the transformative power of spiritual choices and beliefs.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS A REALM OF SOUND
Sound plays a crucial role in the spiritual realm, symbolizing divine communication and intervention. Acts 2:1-4 (NKJV) describes the sound of the Holy Spirit’s arrival: “When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.” This sound marked a significant divine event.
1 Kings 18:41-42 (NKJV) recounts Elijah’s prophetic announcement of rain: “Then Elijah said to Ahab, ‘Go up, eat and drink; for there is the sound of abundance of rain.’” The sound of rain, preceding its physical manifestation, signifies divine promise and provision.
Joshua 6:20 (NKJV) illustrates how sound was instrumental in spiritual warfare: “So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets. And it happened when the people heard the sound of the trumpet and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat.” Sound can be a powerful tool in executing spiritual strategies and claiming divine victories.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS A REALM OF LIGHT
Light represents divine truth and guidance in the spiritual realm. John 8:12 (NKJV) declares, “Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.’” Jesus embodies the ultimate source of spiritual illumination.
1 John 1:5 (NKJV) emphasizes that “God is light and in Him is no darkness at all,” affirming God’s purity and truth. Psalms 119:105 (NKJV) describes God’s Word as a guiding light: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Ephesians 5:8 (NKJV) instructs believers: “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” Embracing spiritual light transforms our path and purpose.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS A REALM OF THOUGHT
Thoughts have profound spiritual implications, reflecting our inner alignment with God’s will. Proverbs 23:7 (NKJV) notes, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” Our thoughts shape our identity and actions.
Philippians 4:8 (NKJV) advises, “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” Our thought life should reflect divine values and virtues.
2 Corinthians 10:5 (NKJV) instructs, “Casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.” Spiritual warfare involves aligning our thoughts with Christ’s obedience.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS A REALM OF FAITH
Faith is the foundation of our spiritual connection and interaction. Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV) defines faith as “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Faith bridges the seen and unseen realms.
Matthew 17:20 (NKJV) emphasizes faith’s transformative power: “So Jesus said to them, ‘Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.’” Faith enables us to access and manifest divine possibilities.
Mark 11:24 (NKJV) highlights the prayer of faith: “Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.” Faith-filled prayer unlocks divine responses and blessings.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS A REALM OF LOVE
Love is the essence of the spiritual realm, reflecting God’s nature and commands. 1 John 4:16 (NKJV) states, “And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.” Dwelling in love connects us intimately with God.
John 13:34-35 (NKJV) commands, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Love is the hallmark of true discipleship and spiritual maturity.
1 Corinthians 13:13 (NKJV) underscores love’s enduring nature: “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” Love is the ultimate expression of our spiritual identity and purpose.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS A REALM OF ETERNITY
The spiritual realm transcends time, encompassing eternity. Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NKJV) notes, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, He has put eternity in their hearts.” Our spiritual existence is inherently eternal.
John 5:24 (NKJV) assures eternal life through faith: “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgement, but has passed from death into life.” Eternal life is a key aspect of our spiritual inheritance.
Revelation 21:4 (NKJV) envisions an eternal future with God: “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Eternity with God is characterized by peace and joy.
THE REALM OF THE SPIRIT IS A REALM OF SPIRITS
The spiritual realm comprises various spirits, both divine and malevolent. Hebrews 1:14 (NKJV) describes angels as ministering spirits: “Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?” Angels are divine agents serving God’s purposes.
Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV) warns of spiritual warfare against dark forces: “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.” Recognizing the presence of both good and evil spirits is crucial for spiritual vigilance and victory.
1 John 4:1 (NKJV) advises discernment: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” Spiritual discernment protects us from deception and aligns us with divine truth.
Understanding the characteristics of the realm of the spirit equips us to navigate it with faith, wisdom, and obedience. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture and seek God’s guidance, we can align our lives with His divine purposes, experiencing the fullness of His presence and power in the spiritual realm.