Understanding Open Heaven
The concept of an open heaven speaks to the divine reality of God’s presence, power, and provision being made manifest in the lives of believers. It is the unfiltered access to the supernatural, where God’s will is done on earth as it is in heaven. However, many misunderstand this reality, thinking that the gifts of God alone validate their spiritual walk. But the truth is, the gifts of God are without repentance (Romans 11:29), meaning that one can operate in spiritual gifts while still being distant from God.
The Gifts Without Repentance
The gifts of God are freely given, and they serve a purpose beyond the individual. They are meant to edify, strengthen, and build up the body of Christ. However, a person can misuse a gift, operate in it without holiness, and still deceive themselves into thinking they are in right standing with God. This is why Jesus warns in Matthew 7:22-23 that some will prophesy, cast out demons, and perform miracles, yet He will say, “I never knew you.”
Your gift does not validate your walk with God. It is not proof of intimacy, righteousness, or obedience. You did not choose your gift; God gave it to you. But there is something you can choose—His presence.
The Priceless Presence of God
While salvation is free, choosing righteousness is costly. It will cost you everything—your desires, your will, and your comfort. But being in God’s presence is priceless. Spending time with Him, abiding in His presence, and seeking Him above all else is what truly transforms a believer.
Moses understood this when he said, “If Your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here” (Exodus 33:15). He valued God’s presence more than the promise. Too many believers today chase after the hand of God instead of His heart, seeking blessings while neglecting the blesser.
Heaven Within: The Power of the Holy Spirit
When a person is born again, they immediately gain access to the fullness of what the Holy Spirit offers. This is the heaven within—the indwelling presence of God, a wellspring of divine resources.
Jesus said in John 7:38, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” Everything you need is already inside you because you carry God within you. Every challenge you will ever face already has a solution, for Christ in you is the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).
Yet, many believers live disconnected from this reality, always relying on others to pray for them rather than cultivating their own relationship with God. The truth is, while corporate prayer is powerful, your intimacy with God cannot be outsourced. You must know Him for yourself. You must build an altar in your own life.
Returning to the Power of the Cross
Many have become so focused on mysteries, deep revelations, and spiritual encounters that they have abandoned the foundation of Christianity—repentance.
Repentance is not merely a prayer of forgiveness; it is a lifestyle of consecration. It is the daily decision to surrender to God’s will, to walk in holiness, and to align your life with His purpose. Without repentance, there is no true salvation. Unless a man is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God (John 3:3).
Living Under an Open Heaven
To live under an open heaven is not just about experiencing supernatural encounters; it is about walking in consistent obedience and intimacy with God. It is about prioritizing His presence over everything else. It means:
- Seeking God for who He is, not just what He can give.
- Living a life of holiness and consecration.
- Understanding that your gift is for others, but your intimacy with God is for you.
- Praying without ceasing, making prayer your lifestyle.
- Tapping into the heaven within by walking in the power of the Holy Spirit.
The call to believers today is to return to the foundation—the power of the cross, the necessity of repentance, and the priceless treasure of God’s presence. It is time to move beyond superficial Christianity and step into true sonship, where we not only operate in the gifts but also walk in holiness, intimacy, and surrender.
The question is not whether you have a gift, but whether you have a relationship with the giver. Have you chosen His presence today?
