Dreams and sudden impressions are more than background noise. As John and Lisa Bevere explained in their recent podcast episode, they can be a battleground—where God speaks, the mind processes life, or the enemy tries to intimidate.
“Not every dream is from God,” Lisa said. That distinction matters. Some dreams reflect daily stress or information the brain is sorting. Others stem from fear and accusation. Still others, like in Scripture, carry genuine direction or warning from the Holy Spirit.
The Bevere’s emphasize that the first step is discernment. Ask, What is the source? Fear-based imagery should be resisted, not absorbed. John shared how a young pastor was tormented by visions of dying early. Nothing changed until he began “using the word of God” against the fear instead of passively hoping it would go away. Once he stood on Scripture, the torment lifted.
Biblical examples reinforce this posture. Daniel and Joseph both insisted that “interpreting dreams is God’s business,” meaning believers must involve God rather than assume instant meaning. Sometimes revelation comes quickly; other times, like Daniel’s 21-day struggle for interpretation, it requires patience and persistence.
The Bevere’s urge believers to write things down when they sense God speaking. Daniel documented his dreams, and Jesus told John in Revelation to “write in a book everything you see.” John admitted many divine whispers are forgotten because people assume they will remember. Journaling protects clarity and honors God’s voice.
They also warn against trying to force fulfillment. John recalled nearly resigning his job to make a vision happen—only to later realize God had His own timing and method.
Above all, Scripture remains the filter. If a dream contradicts God’s written Word, John said, “reject it.” If it aligns but remains unclear, set it aside and pray for understanding.
Their message is practical and hopeful: God still speaks, but spiritual maturity requires discernment, resistance to fear, and a willingness to record and wait on His direction.
James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a background in journalism from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine.
