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Spiritual Atmosphere

by: Wayne C. Anderson

When interpreting the Bible, the word spirit does not always mean an entity or persona. In fact, much of the time, the word spirit speaks of atmosphere. For instance, there is no entity named heaviness, yet the prophet Isaiah wrote of the "spirit of heaviness." This is, however, a reference to an atmosphere of heaviness. Likewise, the "spirit of prophecy" (spoken of in Revelation 19) is the atmosphere prevalent at the presence of the Lord and his servants.


Every spirit has an atmosphere. Most everyone has had the experience of coming into the presence of a very negative person. Their speech and their mannerisms drive you crazy, and you just want to get out of that place. The spirit of this world is creating an atmosphere of fear on purpose: To control the population.


One can use this same principle in a positive sense as well. Many motivational speakers have an atmosphere that excites those with whom they come in contact. They motivate not only with their good ideas, but their spirit provides an atmosphere that causes enthusiasm and creativity.


When a leader stands before the people to give direction, she/he is producing an atmosphere that is unconsciously considered and felt by nearly all. If the leader is tired and his/her spirit is weary and slowed, the people will have to strain to hear what is being said, and the audience will even fight lethargy and sleepiness.


A leader should not be a leader by self-appointment, ambition, or democratic rule. A leader is, first of all, a follower. If consumed by following Christ, the result will be that people follow.

People only follow people who care for their spirits and present an atmosphere that coincides with the Father's Spirit. The Father is known to us as Creator and Giver. The spirit of the true leader – not the wannabe leader – reminds the people of their heavenly Father.


Since the world around us is producing the spirit of fear to control us, there must be a mechanism to fight back. "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7) Thus, we should intentionally fill the atmosphere around us with the power of faith, perfect love from the heart, and a mind that is heart-led.


We all should be much more responsible for the way other people perceive our spirits. Though the body may be tired or the mind fearful, we must not let our spirit be presented in such a way. It is far better for us to retreat to a place of solitude and get our hearts in a place of power, love, and sound mind, overcoming the negative feeling that abides than influencing those around us with negativity and our fears.
Thanks for reading. See you soon!

Wayne C Anderson & Your I.A.M. Apostolic Directors & Team