Divine experiences, as recorded in the Bible, serve multiple purposes in the life of believers and the unfolding of God's plan. These experiences, which include visions, dreams, angelic visitations, and direct encounters with God, are pivotal in revealing God's character, guiding His people, and affirming His covenant promises.

1. Revelation of God's Character and Will: Divine experiences often reveal aspects of God's nature and His will for humanity. In Exodus 3:2-6, Moses encounters God in the burning bush, where God reveals Himself as the "God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob" and commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. This encounter not only discloses God's identity but also His compassion and commitment to His people.

2. Guidance and Direction: Throughout Scripture, divine experiences provide guidance and direction to individuals and nations. In Acts 9:3-6, Saul (later Paul) experiences a dramatic encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus. This divine intervention redirects Saul's life, transforming him from a persecutor of Christians to a pivotal apostle in the early Church. Similarly, in Genesis 28:12-15, Jacob's dream of a ladder reaching to heaven reassures him of God's presence and promises, guiding his journey and future.

3. Confirmation of God's Promises: Divine experiences often serve to confirm God's promises and covenants. In Genesis 15:1-6, God appears to Abram in a vision, reaffirming His promise to make Abram's descendants as numerous as the stars. This encounter strengthens Abram's faith and solidifies the covenant relationship between God and Abram.

4. Encouragement and Strengthening of Faith: Divine experiences can encourage and strengthen the faith of believers. In 1 Kings 19:11-13, Elijah, feeling despondent and alone, encounters God not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. This experience renews Elijah's strength and resolve to continue his prophetic mission. Similarly, in Matthew 17:1-8, the Transfiguration of Jesus provides Peter, James, and John with a glimpse of Christ's divine glory, reinforcing their faith in His messianic identity.

5. Judgment and Correction: At times, divine experiences serve as instruments of judgment and correction. In Daniel 5:5-6, during Belshazzar's feast, a hand appears and writes on the wall, signaling God's judgment on the Babylonian king for his arrogance and sacrilege. This divine intervention serves as a corrective measure, demonstrating God's sovereignty and justice.

6. Preparation for Future Events: Divine experiences often prepare individuals for future events or missions. In Acts 10:9-16, Peter's vision of a sheet with unclean animals prepares him to accept Gentiles into the Christian community, marking a significant shift in the early Church's mission. This experience underscores God's inclusive plan of salvation.

7. Manifestation of God's Power and Glory: Divine experiences frequently manifest God's power and glory, leaving an indelible impact on witnesses. In Exodus 19:16-19, the Israelites witness God's presence on Mount Sinai through thunder, lightning, and a thick cloud, emphasizing His majesty and authority. Such manifestations serve to instill reverence and awe among God's people.

In summary, divine experiences in the Bible are multifaceted, serving to reveal God's character, guide and direct His people, confirm His promises, encourage faith, administer judgment, prepare for future events, and manifest His power and glory. These experiences are integral to the narrative of Scripture, illustrating God's active involvement in the world and His desire for a relationship with humanity.