The Gift of Prophecy
One of the most beautiful truths in Scripture is that God still speaks to His people. He does so in many ways, through His Word, the leading of the Holy Spirit, and the gift of prophecy. Prophecy is not reserved for a select few; it is a gift that the Holy Spirit makes available to the Church for the building up of God’s people. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 14:3 that “he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.” The gift of prophecy, at its core, is about sharing God’s heart with others. It is less about predicting the future and more about releasing words of encouragement, direction, and comfort that reflect His love and truth.
Samuel’s Example In 1 Samuel 3, we read about young Samuel hearing God’s voice for the first time. At first, he didn’t recognize it, but with guidance, he learned to respond. His story reminds us that prophecy begins with simply learning to recognize when God is speaking. Like Samuel, we may need time, practice, and spiritual guidance to grow in this gift.
The Purpose of Prophecy Prophecy is given to: • Build Up (Edify): Strengthening the faith of others. • Encourage (Exhort): Inspiring believers to keep pressing into God’s will. • Comfort: Bringing God’s peace and reassurance in times of need. It is never meant to draw attention to the person giving the word but to point others back to Jesus. True prophecy reflects His character and aligns with Scripture.
A Call to Step Out Prophecy is not meant to stay hidden—it is meant to flow through you to bless others. As you spend time with the Lord and listen for His voice, be bold to share what He places on your heart. Even a simple word of encouragement, spoken in faith, can change someone’s life.
Growing in the Gift
- Ask for It: Paul encourages us to “earnestly desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy” (1 Corinthians 14:1). If you long to be used in this way, begin with prayer—ask God to stir up this gift in your life.
- Practice in Community: Start in safe, trusted spaces, such as with close friends or in small groups where you have been given the green light to lead. This gives you a chance to test and refine what you sense God is saying while receiving encouragement and feedback from others.
- Stay Rooted in Scripture and Love: Prophecy will never contradict the Word of God. And as Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13:2, without love, even the greatest prophetic words mean nothing. Love must always be the foundation.
