Supernatural

<<beyond the natural, miraculous>>

These are events and phenomena that are beyond the laws of nature. A miracle is an occurrence in which God intervenes and overrules the 'laws' of nature to do something that could never happen naturally. However, we open ourselves to deception if we think all supernatural happenings and miracles are of God, for there are two sources: the limited demonic powers such as displayed by magicians, or God’s unlimited power, for He does whatever He chooses, being governed only by His character (Ex 7:11,22, 8:7,19; Job 23:13; Ps 115:3, 135:6). Anything God does is ultimately for humanity’s best, while Satan’s aim is to destroy (Jn 10:10). Time will reveal the origins of any power including ‘false Christ’s’ who will deceive many with great signs and miracles (Mt 24:24; Rev 13:13).

It was said of Jesus, “No one does these [righteous] things except God is with them...God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and power and He went about doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with Him” (Jn 3:2; Act 10:38). The Apostles did what Jesus had instructed them to, “and the Lord worked with them and confirmed His word by the signs that accompanied it” (Mk 16:20). It is God’s intention that this manifestation of His love to humanity continue, for He stated “Go into the entire world and preach the good news...and these signs will accompany those who believe. In my name...” (Mk 16:15-18). Being connected to Jesus is more important than any display of power (Mt 7:21-23; Lk 10:17-20).

Even life itself is supernatural, beyond the capability of human effort; God has made us and gives us life (Job 33:4). He gives us the choice to be channels or instruments through which we allow either Satan’s destructive force to be outworked, increasing the corruption and heartache in society, or the love and beneficial power of God to flow out to others.

All the miracles of Jesus were supernatural as was the empowering by the Holy Spirit on Peter and the other disciples on the day of Pentecost, and throughout the book of Acts. Jesus said such mighty demonstrations of divine power should continue, “Anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will even do greater things than these…” as we bear fruit for God’s glory (Jn 14:12, 15:8).  So expect and look for the supernatural, by being in tune with divine inspiration and creativity, hearing what the Spirit says and being accountable to other believers, yet do not fall for Satan’s counterfeits or methods to bring forth something independent of God.

steps” but it is a spiritual battle that requires spiritual weapons and resources to accomplish His goals for “It is not by might or power [human effort] but by my Spirit says the Lord” (Jer 10:23; Zech 4:6; Eph 6:10-18). “It is the anointing of His Spirit that breaks the yoke of bondage” (Isa 10:27). What is impossible with man is possible with God (Lk 18:27). Do not explain away or lock yourself out from receiving what He wants to do in and through you; rather have an attitude of expecting His provision, focusing on the Lord who is for you, and living obediently, thus positioning yourself in faith to receive from His bountiful provision.

See also: manifestations, miracles, prayer, signs.