Listen: Guided by the Holy SpiritSample

God speaks through others

We receive all we need in this life through an intimate, personal connection with God. His Holy Spirit guides us in all things. As we discover this for ourselves, we often long to make this known to those around us.

1 Corinthians 14:1 (AMPC) points us in the right direction –

‘EAGERLY PURSUE and seek to acquire [this] love [make it your aim, your great quest]; and earnestly desire and cultivate the spiritual endowments (gifts), especially that you may prophesy (interpret the divine will and purpose in inspired preaching and teaching).’

Love is tangible. It looks like something. As the Holy Spirit pours love into our hearts (see Romans 5:5b), we love God, and we love people. We desire to make Him known to those around us. From that premise, the writer encourages us to speak God’s heart and mind to those around us. The writer would not instruct us to do something we are unable to do. He is reminding us of our ability to hear God and respond to His voice. Further he provides tools to grow in this regard. He exhorts us to desire those gifts and make those desires known to God. Then, much like James, he invites us to step out in faith and develop those gifts. As we respond to the leading of the Holy Spirit on a constant basis, our confidence to hear His voice increases.

1 Corinthians 14:3 (AMPC) defines the context of speaking to others on behalf of God –

‘But [on the other hand], the one who prophesies [who interprets the divine will and purpose in inspired preaching and teaching] speaks to men for their upbuilding and constructive spiritual progress and encouragement and consolation.’

When we prophesy to one another our deepest desire is the well-being of others. We will not trust our own opinion, but rather we ask God for His point of view.