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 Chuck Goldberg

“But, God, I don’t know anything about television.”

It was not out of unbelief that Suellen Roberts reacted when she felt a divine call to launch a TV program, though that might have been understandable.

After all, her experience was light years away—in retailing and public relations. She had spent four years as an executive buyer and galleria manager for Gucci in New York City, where Aldo Gucci exhibited his private art collection. Roberts oversaw pre-ball parties, hosted visiting heads of state and celebrities, gave an art tour, and more.

It was a careless choice that resulted in significant trauma. I relive that choice. Every. Day. The force of regret from this experience silently envelops me in its lonely shame whether I try to run from it, attempt to cure it, or try to avoid it. It’s a slow bleed in my heart.

A significant trauma can define the contours of life, shaping your reactions, hemming you in when you want to be brave, pulling you into a vortex of what if’s that paralyze you with fear and shame. It could be anything: a choice with devastating results; a betrayal; an addiction; abuse.

Why is your bed strategic? Because the place where you sleep is a site of divine renewal or satanic regression. You could be either made or marred on your bed. Lying on your bed in the solemnity of day or the serenity of night, you can initiate, maintain, and sustain fruitful thinking that will change your life. Great thoughts of glorious happenings could be inspired on your bed as you thoughtfully guard your hearts in deep search of divine mysteries: “There is a spirit in man, the inspiration of the Lord giveth them understanding,” Job 32:8.