The best answer I can give re: how to recognize it with all the mixed messages out there today, is yes, there IS a positive spiritual force - I know Him as God. But don't be fooled by these man-made churches. Satan lives there too. The best reading source I've found is a book called Pagan Christianity. It breaks everything down to how positive spiritualism as in Christ's day & before, have basically been hijacked for centuries & why. This book is so good, I can't tell you how many times I've read it. I'm enclosing the free pdf d/l for it. Please read it if you are so moved to. And above all, remember this; our Father wants nothing but the best for us & it's all about the Relationship.
God Bless..
http://www.theology.kiev.ua/images/afiles/0000412.pdf