When Paul penned
these words he was sharing a principle for life and especially for prophetic
ministry. Nothing we do or say is ever a
complete or final word on any subject. Whenever you bring a prophetic word it only
reveals part of a much larger picture.
To think we bring complete revelation is both naïve and arrogant. On the
other hand, requiring this completeness whenever someone prophesies reveals a
lack of understanding of how the gift actually functions.
Most of the people who
hear a prophetic word will respond with kindness and understanding. A very
small percentage will get angry and actually condemn the word because they feel
it did not bring a complete revelation or filter easily through their
theological grid.
When someone
confronts you and challenges the content of your word they may simply need a
gentle and private response from you.
Your mature and gracious interaction with them has the potential to ease
their displeasure and provide for them an opportunity to consider a more
compassionate and measured response in the future. For those who continue in
their angry correction bless them and move on. Your response, no matter how
gracious, will actually fuel their negative attitude giving them a wider
audience where they can vent their anger.
Whenever you open
your mouth and speak in God’s name you will always run the risk of experiencing someone’s
displeasure. Use that experience to
develop the depth of your character and the maturity of your gifting.
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