Leader need to grow in prophetic grace

Leaders must lead people in the will of God, inspire them with hope and encourage them to continue. Leaders need to grow in the gift of prophecy.

In this short inspiration session André Kruger explains why leaders must grow in the prophetic anointing, and how it functions. For more on his teachings on flowing in the grace of God go to www.heavensflow.org

Scripture

1 Corinthians 14:1-4

1 Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. 2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. 3 But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. 4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.

Observations

What is prophesy?
According to this Scripture, what is the requirement to administer the spiritual gifts? (verse 1)
Paul says that one should “especially desire [to] prophesy”; what does this imply about the key to function in the gift of prophesy? (verse 1)
Why does Paul highlight the pursuit of prophesy above the other spiritual gifts? (verses 2-4)
Explain in your own words what prophesy does for the hearers. (verse 3-4)

Reflection and Application

Prophecies are words from the heart of God that gives direction, correction, comfort and encouragement. God does nothing on earth without sharing heart and plans with people who flow in this gift (Amos 3:7). These words bring with it grace from God which gives life, hope and strength to the ones who hear. Leaders must pursue and grow in this gift of grace.

What is the most inspirational, uplifting and comforting word of prophesy that you have received from the Lord? How did it affect your emotions and life as a whole?
How do you usually hear words of prophesy from the Lord for someone else?
When last did you wait on the Lord to share a word of encouragement or direction for someone else?
Consider this description of Judas and Silas: “And Judas and Silas, who were themselves prophets, encouraged and strengthened the brothers with many words.” (Acts 15:32)
At the first available fellowship gathering (either church meeting, Bible study, prayer or small group meeting) trust God to share a word of prophesy for someone present.
Ask the Lord to give a word of encouragement to you for someone who needs it today. Pray in the Spirit or wait on God until he puts someone in mind, then wait and pray and write down your thoughts. It sometimes helps me to start affirming the person, until I can discern what the Lord says to the person. Work on your letter until you feel this is what God says, and it is encouraging. Then pray and send it to the person – don’t delay.

Prayer

Consistently pray and petition God for the gift of prophesy and a heart of love. Ask that you may increase in the gift to give direction, hope and encouragement with words of life from God.