What to do with a prophetic word
What to do with a prophetic word?
So, you’ve received a prophetic word. What now? Here are some helpful next steps.
Recognize that a prophetic word is partial.
According to 1 Corinthians 13:9, we “know in part and we prophesy in part”. This means that the prophetic word that you have received is not the complete picture, but a partial word that God has highlighted for you in this time.
Do nothing differently unless definitely directed.
The prophetic word is a powerful tool to give insight into the heart, will and purpose of God for our life. However, it is not the sole authority in our life. A true prophetic word will always align with both the written Word of God (The Bible) and His heart and character as referenced in the Bible as well as personally witnessed in our own spirit. Just because a prophetic word suggests an action be taken, there should always be confirmation of this by Scriptural backing, Holy Spirit’s leading within you and most often also confirmed by your spiritual authority (i.e. Pastor). Also recognize right timing. Just because an action is suggested, doesn’t always mean it is for today.
Be active with your word.
At Giving Light, to the best of our ability we will always provide you with a recorded copy of your prophetic word. We strongly suggest that you rehearse your prophetic words by actively listening to and/or transcribing them. This allows the word to be kindled in our spirit. It also reminds us of what God has said and allows our soul to partner with the word.
Pray into your word.
As you listen to your prophetic word, ask the Lord to give you further insight, counsel, and revelation on how you can best partner with what He has said to bring it to pass in your life. We have a responsibility to actively pursue what God has spoken—praying into your prophetic word is a great way of doing this.
Keep your heart tender.
The Bible says that God’s ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9). Sometimes when we receive a prophetic word we have our own ideas on how it may come to pass. We want to always keep our heart soft before the Lord trusting that as we do our part, He will do what He has promised. It may not always look how we expected, but we can remain confident that He who promised is faithful (Hebrews 10:23).
Remain Submissive & Humble
We advise that you submit your prophetic word to your pastor. A pastor’s caring wisdom and long-term perspective is priceless in any area of growth or direction in our walk with the Lord. We do not believe that personal prophecy is a replacement for pastoral counsel and oversight. Receiving a valid, genuine word from the Lord is not a license to become independent or to take on a spiritually superior attitude. Prophecy is one way we can know the will of God; pastoral counsel is another complementary way. The two should flow together with the Bible as the foundation and source of which they should all agree.
Remember: nobody’s perfect.
As your prophetic word is delivered to you by a person, recognize that that individual is just that, a delivery person. They are not God, they are not flawless and sometimes they get it wrong. This is why it is important for you to take responsibility to seek God concerning your word, to get wise counsel, and to obey God’s leading.
Be blessed and be encouraged that God loves you and wants to continue to speak to you!