Melodie Stormann, a wisdom prophetess and Director of Education for Behold Wonder, describes how the Encounter time is structured for this course.

“It takes just one God encounter for people to change!” - Wendy Backlund

In Behold Wonder courses, you will hear us using the word “encounter” quite frequently. In fact, we end each class with a time called “Encounter” when we practice connecting with God. Wendy Backlund defines a God encounter as “a time when you felt emotionally connected to God, had a life-changing revelation, or experienced a worship or prayer time when you were very aware you were connected to God, spirit to Spirit.”

Some examples of encounters in the Bible would be Paul on the road to Damascus in Acts 9 or Jacob wrestling in Genesis 32 or the quiet whisper Elijah heard in 1 Kings 19.

One example of encounter would be when you feel God’s peace, whether that is a letting go of your worries or a physical sensation like being wrapped in a warm blanket. Another example of encounter may be an impression of angels in the room or seeing a picture in your imagination that carries a message from God. You can encounter God through your senses or through an inward “knowing”. You are not limited to “feeling” something in order for an encounter to happen. We want an experience of connection with God and we set aside time in our courses and in our daily lives to connect with Him. He can connect with us any way He wants!

We have many ways to practice encountering God. One way is by using our senses to visualize a scripture passage. Ask questions, such as “What can I smell? Can I hear or taste anything? What do I feel in my body or my emotions? What do I sense?” Some people find that to pace or walk with Jesus helps them connect more easily. Some like to doodle, or draw or write. You don’t connect with your family and friends only one way; the Lord likes variety in His connection time with you as well!

It is hard to be friends with someone we don’t know! At Behold Wonder, we hold friendship with God of the highest importance. Encountering God is the primary way to grow in friendship with Him!

At Home

Each week, your homework will include both a scripture verse on which to meditate in preparation for the next class and a Home Encounter that will lead you through specific steps to practice. 

In Class

Whether through a prophetic activation or ministry time, we dedicate the last segment of every class to practice connecting with God and experiencing His presence. This is not a one-and-done experience, but rather a spiritual skill in which we want to grow. We can intentionally connect with God. We don’t have to wait and hope He “shows up”.