Question: My mother’s grandfather passed away some number of years ago before I was born. (I am now 17). She has been visited by his spirit since and each time he comes with a message or clues to something that is about to happen in our family. I have only recently started "seeing" him myself. I didn’t know who he was at first and began asking questions about the man I was seeing at night when I dreamt or got up for water.

My mother had been having a dream of a casket and could not see the face inside. She had a visitation and saw her father’s face and the spirit said for us to get my grandma’s house in order. Last night, I dreamt that my mom and I were in my room. I was going to show her something on my wall, and when we got there all my lights blew and we saw a door in my wall with a glowing light around it. I believe that it is a portal to the afterlife where spirits can come back to bring important messages and so does my mom.

I’ve never been that religious and this kinda scares me. Do you know what this is? And if you have any comments on the afterlife and spirits, please let me know. I didn’t know who else to ask about it. Have similar things occurred? I have always seen "ghosts" even from the time I was a child. I often have dreams of things that come true. I don’t think I’m psychic or anything like that. I don’t believe in those. I do believe these messages are coming from a higher power, and I think it is God. My family has done this for generations. What do you think about it all? Should I be afraid of the door? I just don’t know.

Thanks for your time!

Carrie

Answer: Dear Carrie,

The Bible tells us that there are "higher powers" that are not from God, and that Christians should resist them, rather than be curious or fascinated by them. The Bible further tells us that God contacts us and connects with us in logical and conventional ways that all humans have access to (such as through his written revelation – the Bible) rather than a mystical or magical way. Through prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, we are able to pour out our hearts to God, and he listens, but does not, at this time in history, respond to us audibly, nor provide strange or bizarre manifestations. Such incidents are not the way that Jesus Christ intervenes in our lives, forgiving us, saving us and helping us. We have a free booklet on prayer that we would be glad to send you.

Pastors of churches that are part of orthodox Christianity, the Christianity that is based upon the New Testament teaching of Christ and the apostles, offers counseling and guidance about the spirit world. Plain Truth Ministries suggests that you consult with a pastor near you for further direction. Please let us know if you need further help or assistance.

In Christ,

Greg Albrecht