In 1 Chron 12:32, we read of the men of Issachar whose special contribution to David’s army was that they ‘understood the signs of the times and knew the best course for Israel to take.’ [1]

Today, I want to think about this in the context of intercessory prayer—in particular, praying for our town, city, region or nation.

Should we continue to pray the way we have done in the past; the way we have previously been taught? Or—is the Spirit calling us to a new way of prayer that reflects the current season that we are in?

Where we have been: Intercessory Prayer Strategies for Regions

During the last two decades of my involvement in the ministry of prayer, I have come across a number of emphases, including:

1. Identificational Repentance

Praying and repenting on behalf of those who have committed sin and injustice in the past, confessing their sin, and asking for God’s forgiveness and cleansing of the land. Sometimes this includes confession and asking for forgiveness to people groups who have been wronged.

2. Spiritual Warfare

Discerning or identifying specific regional demonic principalities or strongholds and praying directly against them.

3. Spiritual Mapping

Researching the natural and spiritual history of an area in order to identify how to pray strategically for an area, with a particular focus on identifying and praying against spiritual strongholds, but also reviewing how God has moved in the past.

I believe that at the current time, these methods—at least, as a primary focus or strategy—are being superseded.

Of course, if Holy Spirit is leading an individual or group to repent, or to wage warfare, or to do research over a particular area, then yes, let’s do so.

The key is relationship and timing. We need to know ‘this is how the Holy Spirit is leading us right now’ and ensure that we are not praying a certain way out of our own preferences, tradition, training or expertise.

We will know that our prayer is sourced in the Holy Spirit by the fruit: the God-ordained, supernatural impact that takes place as a result of our prayer.

4 Revelations that Shift the Way We Pray For Nations

These are exciting days! The Holy Spirit is bringing fresh revelation to the Church globally. Here are 4 truths that God is emphasising at this time, along with how these can impact our intercessory prayer for nations and regions:

1. The Revelation of God as Father

[Jesus said] “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name…’” (Matt 6:9)

We are being awakened to know who we are—our royal identity—and Who our Father is. We are receiving insight into His love and grace like never before.

How this impacts the way we pray:

• Our prayer is motivated, not by fear or judgment, but by the Father’s love for people (2 Peter 3:9) —no matter what arena of life they are in. Our attitude is one of honour.
• Our desire is to hear what the Father is saying and speak that, to see what the Father is doing and do that. (John 5:19)
• We understand the power of speaking and pronouncing blessing. As we pronounce blessing upon our cities, regions and nations, power is released to fulfill God’s purposes and bring people into an encounter with Him.

2. The Revelation of the Kingdom and Kingdom Resources

“…your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matt 6:10)

There is a greater awareness than ever before of the Kingdom of God, His Government and the part that we have to play in exercising His authority so that His purposes are fulfilled upon earth. [2] We are also recognising that an open heaven and the resources of the Kingdom are our inheritance—and available to us in Jesus’ Name.

How this impacts the way we pray:

• We seek and declare Father’s intention over our area, city or nation
• We don’t pray for an open heaven, we pray from the confidence that we already having one
• We shift our primary focus from identifying what the demonic realm is doing, to seeing what Heaven is doing
• We draw freely on the resources of the Kingdom through our petitions and declarations [3]

3. The Revelation of our Heavenly Position

‘And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.’ (Eph 2:6)

Our perspective is being given an overhaul as God is awakening us to our spiritual position of being seated in heavenly places.

How this impacts the way we pray:

• We pray from our position of being seated with Christ.
• The way we wage warfare is changed; rather than have a sense of being underneath principalities, battling our way to break through, we recognize that our spiritual position is over them—resulting in prayers of greater faith and authority.
• We recognize that the atmosphere of Heaven is one of praise, and praise becomes a significant strategy of prayer for our area. (Ps 149)

4. The Revelation of God’s Presence with Us

Lift up your heads, you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. (Ps 24:7)

Along with the revelation of an open heaven, we are gaining further insight into God’s Presence, and what hosting His Presence means for our neighbourhoods, communities, cities and nations. [5]

How this impacts the way we pray:

• We prioritise being filled with the Holy Spirit—and honouring Him in our prayer. (Acts 4:24-31)
• We are not pleading for God’s Presence, but recognizing and delighting in the fact that He is already with us.
• By faith we welcome the Holy Spirit into our nation and region. We believe that God’s Presence is greater than any stronghold—and believe and pray accordingly.
• Having identified principalities or strongholds, moving in the opposite Spirit is our first response [6]
• Worship becomes part of our prayer, as it is the natural response to experiencing His Presence.

Next week I will continue this discussion by sharing some spiritual warfare strategies using the above principles.

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Notes:

[1] 1 Chron 12:32, NLT

[2] I recommend Ps Martin Steel’s teaching on the Kingdom. You can find Martin’s blog here.

[3] See ‘Release The Resources Of Heaven Through Prayer’

[4] See ‘The Visible Holy Spirit.’

[5] See ‘Host God’s Presence and Change a Nation.’

[6] i.e., when an attribute of a stronghold or principality is identified, to draw specifically on those attributes of the Holy Spirit that counter this: for example, responding to poverty with generosity, or accusation with blessing. I will share more on this in the next post.

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Do you have any insights or questions on this topic? I would love to hear about it. Leave a comment in the box below. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

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© Helen Calder Enliven Blog – Prophetic Teaching

On team with David McCracken Ministries: Prophetic Ministry That Empowers The Church
Did you receive this from a friend? Read more from Enliven Blog or sign to receive our weekly prophetic teaching updates at http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog

I was standing at the end of a row during worship, when something white flashed to my right, and a person brushed past me in the aisle. Turning to see who it was, I realised that nobody was there.

Suddenly, my spiritual eyes were opened. In a vision, I saw a group of angels moving to the front and taking position in a line across the front of the church.

Shortly after this, I stood up to preach. My message that night was on ‘Kingdom Investment.’ As I concluded with an impassioned call to ‘live a life that counts for eternity’ an unusual thing happened. While I was still speaking, and with no altar call, a large number of youth and young adults spontaneously rushed to the front to commit their lives to God for His service.

I later realised that they were standing—in a line—in the very area I had seen the angels take their place.

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8 Things I Have Learned About Supernatural Experiences

We live in a time when there is an increasing interest in the supernatural and angelic encounters, both inside and outside of the church.

Today I am considering two questions:

• ‘How can we know for sure that our supernatural experiences are of God?’
• ‘Should we share our experiences with others? And if so, what is the best way to communicate what God is doing?’

During more than 35 years as a Christian with prophetic gifts, I have experienced a number of unusual spiritual occurrences. Some of them were of God—and some weren’t.

Here are some of the lessons that I have learned along the way:

1. The Bible is our Guide for the Supernatural

If we are going to live empowered Christian lives, then we can expect supernatural events and signs, including angelic visitation.

For example, in the New Testament we read of visions (Acts 10:9-16); supernatural travel (Acts 8:39-40, 2 Cor 12:2-4); angels appearing for the purpose of guidance (Acts 11:13), strengthening (Luke 22:43, Acts 27:23-24), protection (Matt 2:13) and deliverance (Acts 5:19).

I am learning to stay open to the many means that God uses to communicate with His children—and to use us. I am also realising that my discomfort with my own or another person’s supernatural experience does not mean that it is not of God.

The Bible is our primary guide in understanding and navigating supernatural encounters. (2 Tim 3:16)

2. Keep the Focus on God, not Angels or Experiences

Our focus should always be on God, worshipping Him and fulfilling His purposes. I have learned to be wary of anything that distracts me from this. (Luke 4:8, Rev 19:10)

If Satan can’t hold us back, he will try and push us too far, into extremes. (Col 2:18)

For example, whilst communication from angels is scriptural, seeking contact with them and initiating conversation with them is not. [1]

3. It is Vital to be in a Church Community

In the New Testament, spiritual gifts are to be expressed and nurtured in community. (1 Cor 12-14)

Isolation is not only lonely and unbiblical – it is also a dangerous place to be.

I have also learned that it is possible to be isolated even in the midst of church life. It takes choice, humility and perseverance to be open about angelic encounters and supernatural experiences, and to submit our spiritual gifts to leadership.

4. Be Accountable in Your Gifts and Supernatural Encounters

I learned the hard way that leadership is a vital means of staying on track in my spiritual gifts and supernatural experiences. (Heb 13:17) It is also necessary to staying in a place of humility. (1 Peter 5:5)

As well as encouraging us in what God is doing, a mentor or leader can also help us weigh up and test both the encounter and any revelation we receive through it. (1 Cor 14:29)

I have also learned that guidelines or protocols in church life are not there to control people, but are there for the protection of everyone—and to honour them and my leaders.

5. All Prophetic Insights are Subject to being Weighed up.

Just because revelation is given in a powerful experience or angelic encounter, does not mean that it is above being weighed up. (1 Thess 5:21, Gal 1:8)

We must beware of blindly putting our trust in an experience. Remember ‘Satan masquerades as an angel of light’ (2 Cor 11:14) and can counterfeit the things of God. [2]

In this regard, I have also learned not to solely rely on my gift of discernment—again, this is a spiritual gift designed by God to be lived out in community and under leadership.[3]

6. Use Wisdom When Sharing with Others:

a. Focus on the Fruit

I have learned when sharing about a prophetic experience, to focus on the fruit, not just share about the experience itself. (John 15:8, Luke 6:43-44) What was the outcome that gave glory to God? Was it a change in my life? An answer to prayer? Myself or another brought closer to Jesus? Someone healed?

If we have not seen fruit (an outcome that gives glory to God), perhaps it is not the right time to share.

Remember, a genuine supernatural experience is a signpost, pointing the way to God—the experience itself is not the destination.

b. Take care how you share about your experiences with others.

I have learned to be sensitive to how others will perceive and respond to my supernatural experiences, and to use wisdom accordingly.[4]

There are critics—people who are seeking ways to discredit the things of God. We do not want to give them fuel. On the other hand, there are going to be sensationalists. These people are drawn to the emotional excitement of supernatural things and will make them a focus. (Col 2:18)

It is human to be drawn to the ‘wow’ factor. But in the New Testament, Divine supernatural interventions did not produce ‘WOW’ but ‘AWE.’ (Matt 9:8, Acts 2:43)

This is all the more reason to exercise wisdom in communicating our experiences.

c. There will be times to hold back from public sharing of an experience

Mary kept the supernatural events surrounding Jesus’ birth in her heart and treasured them. (Luke 2:19)

I have discovered that there are times when, after communicating with my leadership about something I have experienced—to simply keep it to myself. (2 Cor 12:1-4)

7. Revelation Received in a Supernatural Experience is not Superior to Other Types of Revelation

The revelation (insight from God) that one believer receives through the gentle nudge of the Spirit is just as powerful as that received through a vision or angelic encounter. (John 16:3)

Both are of God.

Both are subject to being weighed up.

I have learned that supernatural encounters can make me vulnerable to pride.  (2 Cor 12:7) But humility comes through submitting to godly leadership, remaining transparent and staying in community.

8. Be Naturally Supernatural

Something is wrong if people feel uncomfortable around us or perceive us as ‘spooky.’ I have learned that the anointing of God is not dependent upon a physical manifestation or formularised prayer—but on intimacy with God.

God has called us to live out our Christian faith—including our spiritual gifts and ministries—in a natural way.

This is the lifestyle that Jesus expressed, able to speak with and relate to common people—and ordinary people felt comfortable around Him. (Mark 2:15b)

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Notes:

[1] From a theological perspective, Wayne Grudem says, ‘Though angels did appear to people at various times in scripture, the people apparently never sought those appearances. Our role is rather to talk to the Lord, who is himself the commander of all angelic forces.’ Grudem W. Systematic Theology 1994 IVP:Nottingham p407

[2] We do not need to fear. We can trust our Father to give us good gifts (spiritual experiences) when we are seeking Him (Matt 7:9-11), however we must also use His wisdom in testing the purpose of a spiritual encounter and whether it is in fact from Him.

[3] People who are in deception do not know that they are in deception. This is why accountability within community is so important.

[4] An example of this is when Joseph enthusiastically but unwisely shared his prophetic dreams with his brothers, who then persecuted him for it. (Gen 37:5)

I would like to thank Steve McCracken and Malcolm ‘The Hunk’ Calder for contributions to this article.

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Do you have some thoughts to share about angelic encounters or other supernatural experiences? Leave a comment in the comments box. If it is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

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Related Posts:

6 Questions to ask About Supernatural Signs

An Open Heaven Is Your Inheritance

5 Purposes for Signs and Miracles

Prophetic Ministry In Church Life: Why Have Guidelines?

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© Helen Calder Enliven Blog – Prophetic Teaching

On team with David McCracken Ministries: Prophetic Ministry That Empowers The Church

Did you receive this from a friend? Read more from Enliven Blog or sign to receive our weekly prophetic teaching updates at http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog

Prophetic intercession is simply praying for another person, group or situation by the direction of the Holy Spirit. This guidance comes by way of prophetic revelation—in other words, the Holy Spirit is making something known that is not comprehended by natural means. [1]

All Christians can expect to receive the Holy Spirit’s guidance to pray at certain times. Some, however, will be especially gifted in this area.

The Hunk and I learned the value of having a prophetic intercessor on our prayer team throughout our years of ministry in New Zealand.

During our most difficult trials, one of our personal intercessors—an elderly woman named Marge—would invariably phone us. Her opening words after greeting us would be, ‘What is going on?’ Marge always knew by the Holy Spirit when we were having our fiercest battles, and her insights and prayers were a constant encouragement to us.

The Unique Role of a Prophetic Intercessor

During the years I led the prayer department of our church, I grew to appreciate the different kinds of prayer gifts:

• There were the prayer warriors who would pray every day, on a regular basis. Regardless of what was going on, you knew you could depend on them.

• Some prayer partners thrived on written or emailed prayer requests—and we honoured this by keeping in regular touch with them.

• Still others came to the fore when there was a crisis—swelling the ranks of prayer partners when called upon during an emergency.

A prophetic intercessor operates on a different kind of alert system – being directly alerted by the Holy Spirit as to when there is a need to pray.

The benefit of this is revealed during times when you are in a spiritual battle, or in a crisis where you do not have the ability to send out a general prayer request.

As a leader, I have learned not to place expectations on prophetic intercessors to operate outside of their natural gifting. The communication of prayer requests and testimonies should be seen as fuel for their gift, rather than an expectation that they will pray at a certain time or in a certain way.

Traits of a Prophetic Intercessor

I learned personally about prophetic intercession when the Holy Spirit awakened the gift in me during the 1990’s.

As with all spiritual gifts, no two prophetic intercessors will experience the leading of the Holy Spirit in the same way. Some ways that the Holy Spirit can lead a prophetic intercessor in prayer include:

1. The simple ‘knowing’ that prayer is needed at a certain time.

2. A sudden or growing burden or urge to pray.

3. Receiving insight from God through prophetic revelation such as a scripture, vision, word or feeling.

4. A sense of identification with the object of prayer—in other words feeling the needs of those being prayed for.

5. Sensing the heart of God towards the person or situation requiring prayer.

Note that both 4 And 5 may result in what seems to be an emotional response. This may either prompt the prayer, or manifest during the prayer.

As a prophetic intercessor, I  learned one key difference between my own emotions and those awakened by the Holy Spirit for the purpose of prayer. Feelings allowed by the Holy Spirit for the purpose of prayer can (and should) be released completely through intercession.

6. A prophetic intercessor may at times experience the deep ‘groanings’ of the Holy Spirit. [2] He or she understands what Paul writes about in Romans 8:26-27:

‘In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.’

Important Reminders for Prophetic Intercessors

From the viewpoint of those of us who are not gifted in prophetic intercession, a prophetic intercessor that is lacking in maturity may seem ‘flaky.’ However, he or she may simply be in need of some pastoral leadership and guidance in the use of the gift.

I have discussed some strengths of prophetic intercession above. Some things a prophetic intercessor may need to be gently reminded of at times are:

1. Don’t be intimidated by others’ prayer gifts (such as those who have an ability to pray more regularly). You have a unique and precious gift from God. [3]

2. On the other hand, don’t expect all intercessors to experience prayer the way you do. Their gifts are different but just as powerful.

3. Honour the leadership and culture of your church in the public expression of your prayer. If you are experiencing a feeling or sense of direction that is different to the way the prayer meeting is being led and are unsure what to do about it, pray about it and check privately with the leader. It may be something for you to pray about personally.

4. Related to 3., remember that all prophetic revelation is subject to being weighed up. Submitting the direction of your prayer to leadership and at times needing adjustment is a vital part of your prophetic ministry. (1 Thess 5:19-22)

5. If you do experience manifestations, be aware of appropriate times and places. It is wise to save the ‘emotional’ part of releasing your gift until you can get alone with God. ‘The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets.’ (1 Cor 14:32)

6. You do not need to carry an unhealthy emotional burden related to your ministry of prayer. If you are becoming weary or emotionally involved, check with a leader or have someone pray with you.

7. Prophetic intercession is a ministry of faith. We do not always know the reason for the prayer burden that the Holy Spirit gives us; neither do we always learn the outcome of our prayers. But we do know that God is faithful. And—that the greatest reward of prophetic intercession is intimacy with the Holy Spirit.

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Notes:

[1] The NT Greek word for revelation, apokalupsis, means ‘an uncovering,’ or ‘disclosure.’

[2] This has sometimes been called ‘travail’ and been related to birthing the purposes of God through prayer. The Apostle Paul said of the Galatians, ‘My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you.’ (Gal 4:19) One way this was likely to have been expressed was in his prayers.

[3] For insights about different prayer gifts, I highly recommend Intercessors Discover Your Prayer Power, by FEMRITE, T; ALVES, E; KAUFMAN, K.  2000.  Ventura : Regal.

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Related Posts:

8 tips For Personal Intercessors

How To Increase Your Prayer Support Through Personal Intercession

Releasing The Resources Of Heaven Through Prayer

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Do you have any questions or insights about prophetic intercession? Leave a comment on the comments box. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

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© Helen Calder Enliven Blog – Prophetic Teaching

On team with David McCracken Ministries: Prophetic Ministry That Empowers The Church

Did you receive this from a friend? Read more from Enliven Blog or sign to receive our weekly prophetic teaching updates at http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog

At the start of 2011, I joined the prophetic ministry team at David McCracken Ministries. [1] Prior to this time, both David and Steve McCracken occasionally preached in my home church.

I vividly remember a service at which David McCracken ministered. He brought some timely prophetic insights for our church and went on to preach a sermon that God had given him for our congregation.

The message gripped me, and when David called for a response, I was on my feet in an instant. [2]

Prophetic preaching can be used powerfully by God to minister to congregations and individuals. So, what is prophetic preaching—and how can you benefit from it?

Characteristics of Prophetic Preaching

1. It Utilises the Prophetic Gift

‘Jesus answered, “My teaching is not my own. It comes from the one who sent me. “’ (John 7:16)

A prophetic preacher may use the gifts of teaching, exhortation and prophecy interchangeably or together.

A high value of the teacher is to ensure that the instruction is clear and based upon sound Biblical doctrine. The fruit of a teaching gift is that people are learning and being empowered by the teaching they are receiving.

The prophetic gift is employed to make known the thoughts, purpose and intent of God.

Steve McCracken has a gift of prophetic exhortation. Many years ago, when I was weary and discouraged and felt I could not go on, Steve preached at our church on the theme, ‘You can do it!’

As he spoke, I felt the power of the Spirit roll over me like waves. Caught in this inescapable tide, I began to cry and laugh simultaneously as God brought healing to me.

2. Prophetic Preaching contains a ‘Now’ Word

‘And take the … sword of the Spirit, which is the word [rhema] of God’ (Eph 6:17)

Prophetic preaching has a sense of immediacy.

In the NT, the Greek word ‘rhema’ primarily refers to the spoken word (‘utterance’), whereas ‘logos’ primarily refers to the written word. [3]

Prophetic teaching emphasises the ‘rhema’—God’s Spirit-breathed ‘Now’ word, whilst remaining true to, and undergirded by, the ‘logos’ of God’s word given in scripture.

Prophetic preaching reveals the Father’s ‘Now’ word—making known something that is His purpose and is on His heart. It answers the question, ‘What is God’s word to us now?’

3. It is based on Prophetic Revelation

‘ This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words.’ (1 Cor 2:13)

Prophetic preaching is inspired by the Holy Spirit through the means of prophetic revelation.  The word ‘revelation’ in the New Testament Greek, apokalupsis, means ‘an uncovering,’ or ‘disclosure.’ In other words, God is revealing something by His Spirit that is not known by natural means. [3]

This revelation can take many forms, such as a source scripture or Bible story, an illustration, a specific word of instruction or exhortation, an idea or train of thought, or simply the God-given end goal of the preaching itself.

This is why we place a high priority on prayer and time apart with God in our preparation for ministry.

4. It is Authoritative in Nature

 ^‘When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.’ (Matt 7:28-29)

Prophetic preaching has a distinct ring of authority to it. This authority is not based upon the preacher’s gift, knowledge or expertise, but on the basis of being entrusted with a message from God Himself.

5. It often Contains a call to Action

^‘..Issachar, men who understood the times and knew what Israel should do.’ (1 Chron 12:32a)

Prophetic preaching frequently calls for a response from the hearer. This may be to align one’s heart or actions with God’s word, to pay attention to a timely warning or guidance, or to position for God’s present or future plans.

Prophetic preaching provokes the hearer to respond to the word.  As such, it consistently results in change and transformation.

6. It may be Accompanied by Prophecy

On some occasions, a prophetic minister may also use the gift of prophecy alongside the preaching.

Bringing prophecy to individuals can raise the level of faith in a meeting, and I have seen powerful breakthrough in people’s lives through a timely personal word.

Prophecy can also manifest through prophetic prayer and proclamations, prophetic worship and a word of prophecy for the church or group as a whole.

This will vary according to the leading of the Holy Spirit, the format of the meeting and the unique gifts of the prophetic minister.

7. Prophetic Preaching Results in Breakthrough

Throughout scripture, the instruction of God given through a prophet brought breakthrough for God’s people. This included strategic guidance in a time of warfare (2 Chron 20:14-17), a word of action to take in crisis (Gen 41:25-46) or a specific declaration of breakthrough. (2 Kings 7:1-2)

Prophetic teaching and preaching is invaluable when a shift is needed to bring breakthrough and change.

8. Prophetic Preaching Empowers the Church

‘ Judas and Silas, who themselves were prophets, said much to encourage and strengthen the believers.’ (Acts 15:32)

Prophetic preaching strengthens and encourages the church.

The outcome of prophetic preaching, just as with all prophetic ministry, is that the church and its leadership is built up, strengthened and empowered. (1 Cor 14:3-4)

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Notes:

**This message is adapted from my article, ‘What Is Prophetic Teaching?’ which can be found on our Free Resources page.

[1] To find out more about David McCracken Ministries and our team members, visit our website: www.davidmccracken.org

[2] To hear messages from the David McCracken Ministries team, check out our DMM Free Resource page here.

To access the RSS feed of our podcast, go here: http://dmm.podcast1.s3.amazonaws.com/david-mccracken-ministries—audio-podcast.xml

Alternatively, you can view David McCracken Ministries in iTunes here: http://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/david-mccracken-ministries/id436105579?ls=1

[3] References: VINE, M.A. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words. 1985. Virginia: MacDonald. STRONG, J. Strongs Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. 1996.

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Related Posts:
Do You Have A Ministry Call?
Differences Between Old And New Testament Prophetic Ministry
Prophetic Ministry In Church Life: Why Have Guidelines?

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© Helen Calder Enliven Blog – Prophetic Teaching

On team with David McCracken Ministries: Prophetic Ministry That Empowers The Church

Did you receive this from a friend? Read more from Enliven Blog or sign to receive our weekly prophetic teaching updates at http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog

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Do you have any testimonies, thoughts or questions to share about ‘Prophetic Preaching?’ I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment on the comments box. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

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Jacob Experienced an Open Heaven

Jacob was on the run from the murderous fury of his brother, Esau. It was twilight and he was in a strange land.

The journey being longer than the day, he lay down on the hard ground with a stone for a pillow.

There was nothing in Jacob’s life that indicated what would happen next. His past was a mess—his future seemed uncertain. His hope was that a relative in a distant place would give him refuge.

But that night, he dreamed of a stairway reaching from earth into heaven, upon which angels were ascending and descending.

Above the staircase stood Almighty God. He spoke to Jacob of the covenantal promises given to Abraham and Isaac, and now passed on to Jacob.

Jacob’s life was changed by the revelation of an open heaven above his life. [1] There was nothing he had done to deserve it. God’s favour towards Jacob was based on covenant, not on personal merit.

Jacob was an heir to the promises. And like Jacob, we are heirs of a covenant; not through anything we could achieve ourselves, but by grace, through the shed blood of Jesus Christ.

An Open Heaven: Our Inheritance

When Jesus was baptised, Mark tells us that the heavens were ‘torn open’ as the Spirit descended upon Him in the form of a dove. (Mark 1:10) [2]

Jesus lived and ministered under this open heaven. He was in touch with the Father at all times. Nothing was impossible. Demons fled, diseases were healed; even death could not stand in His way.

Heaven’s supernatural resources were made available to Jesus as He prayed and did what He saw the Father doing. (John 5:19)

When the veil tore open at Jesus’ crucifixion (Matt 27:51), the heavens were opened permanently for all who would believe in Him and become children of God—for Jesus Himself is the stairway to heaven. (John 1:51, John 14:6)

Then, on the day of Pentecost, the Spirit of God baptised the waiting believers. (Acts 2)

Everything that was available to Jesus to accomplish the Father’s will is also available to us today. Jesus would not say, ‘Follow Me,’ if that were not the case. Living under an open heaven is our inheritance, and it should be our expectation.

What is an Open Heaven?

An open heaven is a state where there are no barriers between the earthly realm and the heavenly realm—the throne of God, and all the resources of heaven.

As sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father, we can live in the constant awareness that nothing separates us from our Father and His resources.

What is Available to us Through an Open Heaven?

I encourage you to look up and meditate on the following scripture verses.

1. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit

(Matt 3:16, Acts 2)

2. Provision and blessing

(Deut 28:12, Mal 3:10)

3. Salvation—Ourselves and Others

(Isaiah 45:8)

4. Prophetic Revelation and God’s Throne

(Exodus 24:9-11, Ezek 1:1)

5. Angelic activity in Response to God’s Command, bringing Supernatural Answers to Prayer

(Ps 103:129-21)

Bethel: The House of God

Many Christians associate an open heaven primarily with angelic activity, however as we can see from above, that is just one aspect.

We need to guard against becoming preoccupied with angels. Jacob did not name the place where the heavens opened to him, ‘Dwelling of Angels.’ He named it Bethel, ‘House of God.’

The revelation he received of God that day was so profound that later God would re-introduce Himself to Jacob as ‘The God of Bethel.’

In another era and on another journey, Elisha had to pass a test in order to bear the mantle and authority of Elijah. Would he keep his eyes fixed on his spiritual father to the very end? Or would he be distracted by the brilliance of the glorious carriers—the chariots of God?

When the heavens opened to Stephen, Ezekiel and John, they saw the throne of God.

I want to have my focus on the throne—‘where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.’ (Col 3:1)

There is the source of our life, and our authority. There, we seek the Father’s will and directive, knowing that the resources of heaven—including the angelic hosts—are released at His word and by our partnership with Him in prayer.

As Jesus said,

 “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.’” Matthew 6:9-10

The Glorious Revelation of an Open Heaven

A revelation of what Jesus has done in opening heaven to us will change the way we pray.

• It will change the way we see
• It will change the way we think and act
• We will be conscious of what Father is doing ‘NOW’ and the resources that are available to us ‘NOW’
• We will have confidence in exercising our authority
• Our faith will be increased
• We will live in constant expectation

We will live centred upon God.

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Do you have any experiences or questions to share on the topic of an open heaven? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment in the comments box below. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

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Notes

[1] You can read this story in Genesis 28.

[2] I recommend Bill Johnson’s message, ‘You Already have an Open Heaven.’  You can find it on YouTube here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RULjmyJbQs8

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Related Posts:

No Longer Waiting for Revival

ABC’s of the Kingdom of God

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© Helen Calder 2011 Enliven Blog

On team with David McCracken Ministries: Prophetic Ministry That Empowers The Church

The simple chorus, ‘He Is Lord,’ has been a popular praise song since my early days as a Christian.

My pastor led the song at our church staff meeting last week. It was my final meeting after being on team for nearly 7 years. [1]

In the context of saying farewell to a group that has been like family to me—in order to pursue God’s call to serve elsewhere—the chorus was a reminder of what Lordship means: hearing and obeying God (Luke 6:46).

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“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once [Peter and Andrew] left their nets and followed him. Matt 4:19-20

As Jesus call to His first disciples illustrates, His Lordship (leadership) means three things:

1. Relationship—and in particular, hearing His voice (in this context, receiving instruction)

2. Releasing—leaving our own agenda in favour of pursuing His priorities

3. Responding—acting in obedience to His word, His call, His will.

Jesus’ Lordship is more than making a one-time commitment to Him, and it is more than asking for His guidance for important decisions in our lives.

The meaning of ‘Lordship’ is that Jesus is our leader. We may call Him Lord, but for Him to actually BE Lord, that means we are following Him—on a moment-by-moment, and daily basis.

The Joy of Following Jesus

I have come to realise that responding to Jesus’ leadership is neither a hardship to be feared, nor a duty to perform.

In the past, I had trouble with the concept of Jesus’ Lordship, fearing Him to be a hard taskmaster, when He has actually promised me a life of rest and joy. (Matt 11:28-30, Rom 14:17) [2]

Now I know that Jesus’ Lordship means following Someone whom I love and want to be with more than anyone else in this world.

Jesus’ Lordship in Our Daily Lives

‘Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.’ Rom 8:14

Recently, I have been meditating on what it means to live a supernatural Christian life. The bottom line is this: empowered Christian living is about relationship.

Our life with God should not just be a devotional appointment, but a dynamic living relationship with Him.

He wants to speak to us: not just in the context of

• Personal prayer, Bible study and devotions, or
• Ministry at our church or from teaching elsewhere

but also as we go about our everyday lives.

He does this through the Holy Spirit, whom He has sent to help us know God’s will. (John 16:12-15)

The Leadership of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit lives in us, and wants to communicate the Father’s purposes to us.

As we follow His leading, we can live like Jesus did—seeing people around us changed and impacted by God’s love.

So, what does this look like in practical terms?

Firstly, we need to remember that the Spirit speaking to us is not like a person speaking.

When we talk about ‘hearing God’s voice,’ we are using an earthly expression to describe a heavenly concept. We simply do not have a framework to understand it.

You and I use words, speech and body language to communicate. However, the Holy Spirit has endless ways that He can communicate with us.

7 Ways the Holy Spirit can lead us in our Daily Lives

Over the past year, the Hunk and I have seen some amazing things happen in our lives and in those around us.

Here are some of the things we have learned to pay attention to, as we go about our daily living:

1. Living in the fruit of the Spirit

It is important to realise that we do not need special guidance to live in the fruit of the Spirit. (see Gal 5:16-25)

In other words, when a situation arises that provides us with an opportunity to respond in a loving (patient, joyful, etc) way, we can just do it—asking for His help.

2. A thought, or ‘urge’ from the Spirit

The Spirit leads us through ‘promptings.’

Sometimes these can be subtle. We may have an urge to go somewhere or speak to someone and it is only afterwards we realise it was the Spirit leading us.

At other times, He is leading us to do something other than what we have planned personally to do. When this happens we need to be intentional about obeying Him.

3. A Difficulty Arises.

When a problem occurs, whether it is in our lives, or in the life of someone around us, it is an opportunity to bring God in on the scene through prayer.

We need to become more familiar with responding to a need immediately with prayer. This may mean offering to pray for someone who has a need.

4. An Opportunity Presents Itself (Col 4:5-6)

This can include:

• An opening in conversation gives us an opportunity to share an aspect of our faith
• We have an opportunity to express God’s love through practical assistance when someone is in need.

‘Seize the Day.’

5. Divine Appointments

A Divine appointment looks like coincidence at first.

We can probe a ‘coincidental’ meeting to test whether the Lord has arranged it.
For example, you meet an acquaintance while out walking, or at the shops and you pause to greet him or her.

It may simply be an opportunity to quietly pray for them as you part ways. But if they express a desire to connect further, or share a problem they are facing—explore the opportunity.

6. Prophetic Revelation

Prophetic revelation can include such things as spiritual dreams, symbols, visions and words and thoughts from God. [3]

7. Unique Ways

Ultimately the ways you hear from God will be unique to you.

In the same way that the voice of a friend becomes familiar over time, as we grow in intimacy with God we learn to recognise His voice.

Even though it can be helpful to look out for the above things, don’t forget that the Spirit will speak to you and lead you in many different ways. It’s not about finding a formula, it is about relationship. [4]

Remember, too, that when it comes to matters of hearing from God, especially in relation to prophetic experiences and decision-making, it is vital to have accountability in place—safe people we can check our guidance with. We never ‘outgrow’ the need for Christian leadership and being in a healthy church community.

When we get it Wrong

‘Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?’ (Luke 6:46)

We won’t always get hearing and obeying God’s voice right. I know that I often miss opportunities to respond to the Holy Spirit’s leading.

When this happens, I can confess my shortfall, receive God’s forgiveness, and move on, secure in His love.

Our walk with God is not one of perfection, but of grace (Rom 8:1-4). What is important is that our hearts are open to respond to Him and to grow in this area.

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Do you have any experiences to share on being led by the Spirit in your everyday life? I would love to hear from you. Leave a note in the comments box below. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

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Notes:

[1] From 1 February 2011, I will be on the ministry team at David McCracken Ministries. You can read about it here: http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog/2011/01/20/annnouncement-and-article-by-david-mccracken/
(and yes, while there is a little bit of sadness at letting go of my previous role, there’s a whole lot of joyful anticipation at what is to come. Thank You Jesus!)

[2] This response can be a sign that we are still struggling with an ‘orphan mindset,’where we don’t comprehend who we are or Whose we are. You can read more about it here:

http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog/2010/11/04/breaking-free-from-an-orphan-mindset/

[3] You can read more about receiving prophetic revelation in the following posts:

http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog/2009/11/14/how-to-exercise-your-prophetic-gift-pt-2-how-to-receive-a-revelation-from-god/

http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog/2010/07/27/how-to-recover-the-wonder-of-hearing-gods-voice/

[4] Here is a post about having an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit:

http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog/2010/11/23/how-you-can-have-an-intimate-relationship-with-the-holy-spirit/

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© Helen Calder 2011   Enliven Publishing
http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog/

‘Do not neglect your gift…’
(1 Tim 4:14)

‘A prophet visited our church in Auckland, New Zealand. He pointed me out in the congregation and said, “You have a gift of discernment.”

A few years later when we were living in another city, the same prophet visited our church there. He again pointed me out and said, “Has anyone ever told you that you have a gift of discernment of spirits?” I said, “Yes, you did several years ago.”

We all had a good laugh—but he remembered neither the earlier prophecy nor me. He ministered throughout New Zealand and overseas and had prophesied over hundreds of people in the interim.’[1]

It is one thing to know that you have a spiritual gift of discernment—it is quite another thing to know what to do with it, and how to use it.

A short time after this prophetic confirmation, I began to struggle in church life. I had not been taught the principle of honouring leaders and accountability in the use of my revelatory gifts.

I thank God that He allowed a time of trial to teach me and bring me through repentance to a place of fruitfulness in the use of my gifts. [2]

Through good stewardship we can reach our potential and our gifts can be used to bless and grow the church.

The gift of discernment is a powerful weapon in times of spiritual warfare and of great assistance when breakthrough is needed in our personal or church life.

Here are 8 ways that you can grow your spiritual gift of discernment of spirits. And yes, some of these I have learned the hard way—through trial and error.

1. Source It

True discernment comes from intimacy with the Father.

It is vital that we understand the difference between discernment that is from the Holy Spirit and suspicion, which can masquerade as discernment, but is actually sourced in our own human nature. This is a danger that can trip even mature discerners up. The best means of preventing this is our intimate relationship with God. Other ways we can keep our gift on track are below:

2. Plant It

‘Planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God.’ Ps 92:13

The Biblical context for growing in our gifts is the community of a church (1 Cor 12).

As with all prophetic people, discerners need to be cared for and pastored in a church environment.

When we are planted in the life of a healthy church, we can flourish and grow in our gift. However, we must remember that it will not always be smooth sailing in community life—even in the healthiest of churches.

3. Submit It

It is vital, and a matter of protection for others and ourselves, that we operate in our spiritual gift of discernment with accountability, and under God-given leadership.

It is important that we encourage our insights to be weighed up (1 Cor 14:29). As the Apostle Paul said, ‘For we know in part and we prophesy in part.’ (1 Cor 13:9)

The discernment that we receive is incomplete without the insights of others, who will have different pieces of the puzzle and complementary gifts. (1 Cor 12:12-27)

Feedback is also a great tool to help us grow in our discernment.

4. Purify It

It is possible for the expression of a discernment gift to be affected by our response to negative experiences that we have had in our lives.

I had prayer ministry to help me break free of fear associated with early experiences of demonic encounters. I also received ministry in relation to difficulties with authority. As a result, I have a much more useful gift.

I have also had to grow a great deal in my character—a journey that is ongoing!

5. Study It

Find out what the Bible has to say about the gift of discernment:

• Read examples of people who encountered unseen spiritual realities—how did they respond? What did they do as a result of their experiences?

• How and when did Jesus use the gift of discernment to minister to people?

• What does the Apostle Paul say in his epistles about how spiritual gifts operate in the context of church life and ministry?

6. Develop It

As with other gifts, discernment can be developed and strengthened.

The ability to receive a revelation from God is only one aspect of this spiritual gift. Other aspects include:

• Having the wisdom to know what to do once you have received the discernment,
• How and when to share your insight
• How to weigh up what you have received against scripture
• Procedures for submitting an insight, and so on.

Seek to be trained or mentored in the context of Christian community, where you have safe people who can give you feedback and encourage you on the journey.

Look for good training, along with books and other resources on the topic of spiritual warfare and related areas.

7. Use It

Don’t hold back. Even if you are starting out and tentative, God can use you powerfully. Use your gift of discernment to help guard and grow your church.

If you discern warfare or have a warning, remember that God’s heart is always to redeem and restore. Seek the Father for a promise and His outcome.

The gift of discernment can also help give you insight as to how to respond and pray for breakthrough in any situation.

8. Persevere With It

In the development of every spiritual gift there are times of trial.

In some testing times, God may be allowing us to lose confidence in our own ability to perform in our gift. For example, we may have a period when our discernment becomes cloudy, or we may make an assumption that turns out to be in error.

During these times He is calling us to become more dependent upon Him, and to grow in humility.

You may have true discernment but have been misunderstood or feel as though you have been set aside for a season.

These are times to persevere, and not to allow offense or discouragement to divert you from your calling.

Wilderness seasons are allowed by our Heavenly Father to help us grow in our character or to direct us into new areas of fruitfulness.

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*Do you have any questions or experiences to share with us on this topic? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment in the box below. If the comment box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

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UNLOCKING THE GIFT OF DISCERNMENT E-BOOK – *NEW!*

$5.95 e-Book*

Are you sensitive to what is taking place in the spiritual realm? Have you ever been adversely affected by a negative atmosphere?

You may have the spiritual gift of discernment.

The gift of discernment of spirits is a powerful weapon in times of spiritual warfare, and can be of great assistance when ministering freedom to individuals.

And yet many who have the gift of discernment have difficulty knowing what to do with what they are feeling or sensing.

(More details …)

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Would you like to develop your prophetic gift?
Here are 3 things that can help you:

1. Prophetic Teaching:
Enter your email address in the subscribe box at the top right hand side of this page to receive:

• regular blog posts containing teaching that will help you grow in your gift of prophecy, as well as articles on spiritual gifts, prayer, spiritual renewal and supernatural Christian living

2. Prophetic Training:

Check here for prophetic training resources and information

3. E-books to Help you Develop Your Gifts:

‘Grow Your Prophetic And Prayer Gifts’ is a high-value e-book specifically written to help you grow in your prophetic gifts – at whatever stage or season you are on the journey.

Check out our e-books page for more e-books related to prophetic and prayer ministry.

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Related posts:

A Checklist For Developing Your Spiritual Gifts

What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Discernment?

8 Signs You May Have The Spiritual Gift Of Discernment

The Heart Of A Discerner

Prophetic People In Testing Times: The Reason For The Season

6 Tips For Exercising The Gift Of Discernment In Church Life

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Notes:
[1] This is quoted from my book, ‘Grow Your Prophetic And Prayer Gifts’
[2]I tell the full story in ‘Prophetic People In A Changing Church.’ For a brief testimony check out the Enliven Publishing ‘About’ page.

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© Helen Calder 2010    Enliven Publishing

Now on team with David McCracken Ministries

My standard response to any need for information is, ‘Let’s Google it.’ It seems that any knowledge on earth is now literally available at our fingertips.

Recently, I have Googled to find information on such mysteries as whether my computer had signs of a Trojan virus (yes, and remedial software was suggested), and why my daughter’s cockatiel instantly shed a batch of feathers when unexpectedly knocked (a reflex action of self defence).

But there are some problems and decisions in life for which there are no earthly solutions:

• When in need of provision
• At a crossroad facing life-changing decisions
• When a loved one is wandering far from God
• When no medical answers exist for a physical, mental or emotional health issue

These kinds of situations prompt us to turn to our heavenly Father for the intervention that only He can bring.

The Knowledge That Counts

The key to this kind of miraculous breakthrough, according to James, is effective prayer (James 5:16-18).

The key to effective prayer, according to John, is to pray according to God’s will (1 John 5:14-15).

In order to pray according to God’s will, we need to know the Father’s heart and intent (Matt 6:10).

When it really comes down to it, and we are faced with the critical issues of life, it is not earthly knowledge that counts—but understanding God’s purposes for our situation.

This is the power of prophetic prayer.

What is Prophetic Prayer?

Prophetic prayer is when we pray using information that has been supernaturally revealed to us by the Holy Spirit.

We call this supernatural knowledge revelation.

Beyond The Curtain

It is as though there is a curtain between the natural realm and the realm of heaven.

And on this side of the curtain—the side we live in—is everything that we can know by natural means, for example, through our six senses. This includes Information Technology.

On the other side, are things that are only known in heaven:

• The eternal realm of past, present and future
• The realm of the Spirit and spiritual reality
• The realm of God—His knowledge, His desire, His plans

Revelation—the Greek New Testament word means uncovering, or disclosure—is when the Holy Spirit parts that curtain.

We catch a glimpse of what God has in store, or receive knowledge that the Father wants to disclose to us at that time.

God Wants to Reveal Mysteries to us

Those things on the other side are a mystery to us. We cannot discern them by natural means. But we can discover them with the help of the Holy Spirit.

This concept of the ‘mysteries’ is a biblical one.

In 1 Cor 13:2-3, Paul says,

If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.’

That word mysteries in the NT GREEK is ‘musterion.’

The Vines Concordance has this to say about it:

In the NT [mystery] denotes…that which, being outside the range of unassisted natural apprehension, can be made known only by divine revelation, and is made known in a manner and at a time appointed by God, and to those only who are illumined by His Spirit [1].

When Jesus’ disciples asked Him why He spoke to the crowds in parables, His response was:

“Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. Matt 13:11-12

The Power of a Prayer Language.

The gift of a prayer language is a powerful tool that can help us access this realm of revelation.

The Apostle Paul said,
‘Anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries with his spirit.’ 1 Cor 14:2-3

That word translated ‘mysteries’ is—again—the Greek word, ‘musterion.’ It also means ‘secret.’ When we pray in the Spirit using the gift of tongues, we are praying heaven’s secrets—things that haven’t been revealed in the earth realm yet.

We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. (Rom 8:27)

How to Exercise Prophetic Prayer for Breakthrough

There are many ways that we can use supernatural revelation that the Holy Spirit has revealed to us as we pray. Here are 5 types of prophetic prayer:

1. Receiving: Waiting on God, in prayer, or during prayer, for His insights (Hab 2:1)

2. Interceding: Receiving revelation whilst praying for people or circumstances, or using insights already received to pray for them (e.g. John 17:20-23)

3. Warfaring: Using revelationary knowledge to wage spiritual warfare in a prayer context (A great example of this is David, who prophesied Goliath’s downfall in 1 Sam 17:45-47)

4. Ministering: Using prophetic prayer in the context of ministering to people

5. Proclaiming: Using prophetic insight to make powerful declarations and commands (e.g. Ezekiel 37 valley of dry bones)

The Challenge

I believe that God desires to communicate His plans, purposes and Divine knowledge to us even more than we realise.

The challenge to all of us is, ‘Will we get into the place of intimacy with God where we can receive it?’

[1]. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words, (c)1985, Thomas Nelson Publishers.
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Related Posts:

Is It Time to Birth Your Prophetic Word In Prayer?

The Power of Prophetic Prayer

© Helen Calder 2010   Enliven Publishing

Now on team with David McCracken Ministries

I sat in the office of a counsellor, head down in prayer. The visit was precipitated by difficulties in a ministry situation that had left me discouraged and heartsick.

At this point in the session, the counsellor was inviting me to look into my heart—to visualise, with God’s help, what was happening on the inside of me.

To my complete surprise, instead of the darkness she was verbally preparing me to face, I found myself in a vision:

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I was under water, looking up towards the surface, where a current was flowing swiftly. A thin layer of scum was being carried along and away by the fast-moving water, skimming across its surface.

As I wondered what I was seeing, the vision changed. I saw myself at the bottom of a river, and Jesus was with me. Together we were pulling up weeds from the riverbed, laughing, enjoying the moment. The weeds came away from the river’s floor easily. As we raised our hands and released them, the current of the river caught them away.

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My problems were not difficult for the Lord to handle. In fact, I saw that He delighted in sharing this process—of identifying and removing what was not of Him in my life.
That day, I looked for pain and encountered my Saviour. The prophetic vision He shared with me changed my perspective and helped bring me healing.

Revelation Brings Heaven’s Perspective.

The word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” But Abram said, “O Sovereign LORD, what can you give me since I remain childless?”  (Gen 15:1-2)

Abram had a perspective problem. He was wealthy, but without an heir and without lands he could not comprehend how God could bless him.

The Lord responded by assuring him that He would give Abram a son and that his descendants would possess the land around him. Then:

‘He took him outside and said, “Look up at the heavens and count the stars–if indeed you can count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.”’ Gen 15:5

When God gives us prophetic revelation—whether in vision or otherwise—He enables us to see from heaven’s perspective.

• A vision from God changed Peter’s perspective about the Gentiles and facilitated the spread of the Gospel throughout the Gentile world (Acts 10:9-20)

• A vision of the Risen Christ overturned Saul’s perspective, transforming him from a persecutor of the church to a founder of many churches (Acts 9)

How can we tell whether a personal revelation is from God?

A revelation from God does not come cloaking own ideas; neither does it reinforce our opinions, suspicions or prejudices.

Instead, like a contact lens placed on a natural eye, a vision from God brings adjustment and focus.

The Holy Spirit enables us to see circumstances, others and ourselves as the Father sees them.

He transforms our viewpoint so we can see like Him—and ultimately become like Him.

• When we are discouraged, He brings hope
• When we are fearful, He speaks a word of faith
• When we are hungry to know Him, He reveals more of Himself to us
• When we are confused, He brings clarity
• When we are critical, He shares His love for another

Here are some more ways we can check whether a vision or revelation is from God:

1. Is it Biblical?

2. Does it reflect God’s character and wisdom?

3. Is it redemptive—speaking of God’s heart to save and restore?

4. Do you have an inner witness that it is of God?

5. If it concerns direction—does it have the confirmation of circumstances, your gifts and wiring, and other believers—including your leaders?

The Power of a Vision to Restore

If you could see what heaven sees for your situation right now, how would it change your viewpoint?

Years ago, we experienced division in our church. I was deeply hurt, and shared the opinions and grievances of my friends who had left the church. My heart was urging me to leave.

Standing in a service one day, I received a prophetic vision that brought heaven’s perspective to my situation. I stayed, repented, and was restored. And the rest, as they say, is history.

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Related Posts:

How Your Perspective Can Impact Your Destiny

Counterfeit Prophetic Vision: Don’t Settle For Less Than God’s Best

How to Exercise Your Prophetic Gift Pt 3: How Can You Tell Your Revelation Is From God?

How to Exercise Your Prophetic Gift Pt 2: How To Receive A Revelation From God

Need a Breakthrough? Uncover the Mysteries of Heaven

© Helen Calder    Enliven Publishing

Now on team with David McCracken Ministries

‘God is looking for men and women of maturity…
But there is no maturity because there is no birth.
There is no birth because there is no pregnancy.
There is no pregnancy because there is no conception.
There is no conception because there is no intimate relationship.
There is no intimate relationship because we busy ourselves seeking satisfaction apart from God.’

David Ravenhill [1]

I have kept an early edition of the Morningstar journal in my shelf for many years, for the value of the single paragraph above.

It speaks truth to something deep inside of me—a truth I find myself returning to regularly in my quest for spiritual renewal.

And that is, that at the heart of life-giving prophetic ministry—or any ministry, and even life itself—is intimacy with Jesus.

Face To Face—God’s Purpose from Beginning to End

We are created for a FACE TO FACE relationship with God. We see this at the outset—from the very moment of creation.

Genesis 2 V 7 says:
‘The LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.’

Every other creature was created by the word of God, but God fashioned Adam from the ground and breathed life into him,

And from the moment of that very first FACE TO FACE encounter, Adam lived.

After Adam and Eve sin, in Genesis chapter 3, you see God walking in the garden in the cool of the day. It has evidently been His custom to walk and talk with Adam & Eve… FACE TO FACE, but now Adam and Eve have hidden their faces in shame from God

And you see throughout the whole of the remainder of Scripture, God is working, through His plan of redemption, to restore that FACE TO FACE relationship that was lost.

He accomplishes it by sending Jesus to die on the cross for the forgiveness of our sin. And there on the cross, in one eternal moment, THE FATHER TURNS HIS FACE AWAY from Jesus.

Jesus bore our sin, and the punishment of separation from God that was due to us, in order that our own FACE TO FACE relationship with God might be restored.

And even now, that process of restoration continues until the final fulfillment will take place when we enter eternity…

The Apostle Paul explains it like this in 1 Corinthians 13V12:
‘Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see FACE TO FACE. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.’

Even though the ultimate fulfillment of our FACE TO FACE relationship with God is in ETERNITY, God WANTS to share a close relationship with us now.

• It is the purpose He created us
• It is the reason Jesus went to the cross

And this being the case, I want to know what a FACE TO FACE relationship with God means. In the certain knowledge that I have yet more to discover, I also want to know what I am missing out on.

Responding To God

We cannot meditate on this truth without considering our own personal response. For me, right now, that is twofold:

1. Soaking—Taking time to Worship and to be Refilled.

When Jesus was resurrected, He met with His disciples and FACE TO FACE, He breathed on them, saying ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.’

Receiving His breath, His Spirit, His life, into us is an integral part of having a FACE TO FACE relationship with God.

For me that means spending time with God, with no other agenda apart from being with Him, receiving His Spirit, enjoying His Presence.

2. Conversing—Intimate Conversation with God

I am personally being challenged that God wants to speak to me FACE TO FACE a whole lot more than I have imagined He does. I recognise that doubts and fears have stopped up the flow of His voice, His revelation, to me.

So I will be digging into some journaling this week—with a specific focus.

Here are some ideas for how to do this, if you would like to join me:

• Start your journal with the words ‘Lord what do you want to say to me today?’
• A thought or idea may come to you immediately—in which case, start to write. But if not, wait for the Holy Spirit to give you a revelation—a picture/vision, a Bible verse or story, a word, feeling or idea. Write what you see or what comes to mind and also what you believe God is saying to you.
• Write your response to Him. You may even want to ask another question. It is your conversation with God.

Remember to weigh up carefully any revelation you receive. Keep up your regular Bible reading and always reflect on what you are receiving in the light of what God says in His Word.

[1] The Morningstar Journal Vol. 3 No.4 1993, ‘The Birthing of a Ministry, David Ravenhill.

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Related Posts:

Face to Face With God: Can I Have a Relationship Like Moses?

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©  Helen Calder   Enliven Publishing