I love the Holy Spirit’s gifts. But some of our “Spirit-filled” practices are questionable.

Anybody who has read this column before knows I’m unapologetically charismatic in my theology. I love the Holy Spirit, and I believe the New Testament calls us to make room for manifestations of the Spirit. The Apostle Paul gave guidelines for the gift of prophecy; he saw dramatic healings; he experienced supernatural visions; and he told church leaders not to forbid speaking in tongues (see 1 Corinthians 14:39). Paul was the epitome of charismatic spirituality.

By Cynthia Diggs

Just about every little girl has played house with her baby dolls pretending to be a mom. It is a dream to grow up and experience the love of a child. I distinctly remember the wonderful relationship I had with my mom growing up and even to this day. My mom taught her girls and even her only son the importance of having a good, God-fearing mom. I guess it was always in the back of my mind that I would emulate her one day and share with my children all that I learned from her.

Who says you cannot decree a thing and it will be established?

Some weeks ago, on a trip to visit my brother and his family in Atlanta, Georgia, I wanted to change my itinerary and stay one more day. I knew that it was going to be a 50-50 proposition for success because the penalties involved might not be worth it at the end of the day. After expressing my desire to my brother, he asked us to pray and decree favor. I willingly obliged, because I remembered a similar situation some years back.