The Prophetic Gift Versus The Gift of the Prophet
The Short Version
The Prophetic Gift
I’m thankful for the prophetic gift that lifts up, builds up, and cheers up. But sometimes we need more than a warm and fuzzy word, especially as we go from babes to mature sons and daughters of God. Sometimes we need a challenging word, even a provoking word. Even sometimes a good kick-in-the-pants word to get us out of our comfort zone and into a zone where growth happens. In other words, we sometimes need a more weighty word than an encouraging word.
This is why we also need to hear words of correction, words of direction, and words that are not always easy to hear. Words that bring not just freedom, but also empowerment and healing - that we may grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. And these words are delivered by the gift of the prophet (not the gift of prophecy).
The Gift Of The Prophet
And a true and mature prophet will never speak words of condemnation. This prophet will carry the heart of the Father and will speak the truth in love, just as our Father reproves the children whom He loves. And when this truth penetrates, or pierces the heart, it may hurt for a while, but only till its purposes are accomplished. But the truth never harms. Rather, it heals and restores.
Let Us Pray
Father, grant us the grace and empowerment to be receptive to truth, and to handle it wisely. Grant us also the discernment to distinguish between the gift of prophecy and the gift of the prophet, who operates beyond giving prophetic words. And to recognize the prophets who labor among us.