God speaks again in times of crisis
A rediscovered prophecy brings hope in uncertain times.
The forgotten document
A while ago, my wife Ingrid was busy organizing our paperwork. She sorted through what could be discarded and kept what was valuable. Spring cleaning like this is wonderful and creates space. You always come across things that have been tucked away in a hidden spot for years. It’s always special to read back what was once written down and spoken about your life.
The document Ingrid found was written during a period when we were in the midst of a difficult phase. We were part of a church’s leadership and carried out our duties with joy. Pastoral care, connecting with church members, and sharing the message brought us great fulfillment. It’s wonderful to be part of God’s work. Administratively, however, the church was facing tough times. The details don’t matter, but alongside all the beauty, those were difficult days.
A prophetic conference
During that period, we attended a prophetic conference. It is always good to gain inspiration and receive words of comfort or encouragement. Usually, the Lord speaks to us through reading the Bible, through His gentle voice in our hearts, or through preaching. In difficult times, however, a prophetic word can provide just that extra bit of support. We weren’t desperately seeking it, but sometimes such encouragement comes your way, and we experience that as a great blessing.
I read the rediscovered notes of a prophecy that had been spoken over me more than sixteen years ago. The prophet knew absolutely nothing about me or our situation at the time. That helped me accept the content more easily. I am often hesitant to share messages like this because they are personal, and I don’t want to flaunt them. Prophetic words are meant to help you get back on your feet so you can move forward despite a difficult situation. This text had exactly that character, and that is why I am sharing its content with you here.
Another spiritual family
The message was that I am part of a spiritual family and that another spiritual family was also visible. It spoke of a sincerity toward God that I must hold onto. God continues to reach out to you, it seemed to say. I was to be like the woman with the alabaster jar who pours oil over Jesus’ feet and passes on His love to people. The prophecy spoke of reaching new places and bringing people along. It was also mentioned that I spend a lot of time in God’s presence and am deeply engaged with His Word. People in my circle would experience God’s presence and come to know His Word. The speaker called me a “man of the Word” and saw a marriage between Word and Spirit to reveal God to others.
To my shame, I had forgotten these words. Ingrid had safely stored the document at the time and, after cleaning, placed it back on my desk like a precious treasure. I say “to my shame” because the Bible teaches us not to quench the Spirit or despise prophecies. Paul urges us not to neglect the grace given to us through prophetic words. You must focus on it and make it your own, so that your progress becomes visible to everyone.
Although I had lost track of those words, they have come to pass. Over time, we ended up in another church where we serve the Lord together with many others. It is wonderful to see that God’s calling for our lives has remained unchanged. When you seek God in sincerity and walk with Him as a child with his Father, His election never ceases. Romans 11:29 reminds us that God never takes back the grace He gives and does not revoke His calling.
So many years later
Right now, so many years later, this word still holds true. Even when we have once again found ourselves in a difficult period. A situation we did not seek, one we would rather not have. But one thing I believe, one thing I know for sure: if we hold fast to the conditions of God’s promises, He will not withhold His blessing from us and He will continue to lead us forward.
What resonates in this prophetic word also applies to your life. Hold fast to your faith and calling, for God loves that sincerity. He continues to reach out to you. Whatever situation you are in right now, He is faithful. He will confirm His promise to you when you live sincerely with Him.
@wimvanputten