But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift.  Therefore He says:

“When He ascended on high,
He led captivity captive,
And gave gifts to men.”

…And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ… Ephesians 4:7-11

 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit…
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all… to another prophecy… But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills. 1Corinthians 12:4-11

Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy… he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. 1Corinthians 14:1-3

There has never been a greater need for the gift of prophecy in the church than the season we are now facing. This gift, in all its forms, has been dismissed and abused, shunned and neglect.

I was not raised in a stream that talked much about prophecy; and I recognize that I am not an expert. But this I know, prophecy is a gift of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. It is time we searched it out seriously for our personal preparation and for the edification, exhortation and comfort of those in our spheres of influence.

As a start, let me offer a brief perspective on the ways prophecy has been offered as a gift to the children of God.

1. The Prophecy of Scripture: The prophets of old had much to say about God’s purpose, plans and expectations for His people. I have been reading Jeremiah and I can’t help but think it contains a warning for the American church (check out chapter 11). Jeremiah has been a difficult book to read. The Holy Spirit has not allowed me to read it as an historical account. He has not allowed me to project it on a “them”. He has continually reminded me that it was written not only as a warning to those that would come after, but to me as an individual child of God. That is a good thing.
2. The Prophets of Today: Jesus Himself gave prophets to the church; that we might become His fully mature body. It is reasonable to assume – since our maturity has not been accomplished – that prophets are with us today. It is important that we pray for God to give them courage and the faith to speak the truth to the body of Christ; and that we pray for the grace to discern those that are falsely speaking, “Peace, peace.”
3. The Personal Gift: We are encouraged to desire the Holy Spirit’s gift of prophecy. This is both foretelling (God’s word for the future) and forth-telling (God’s truth for this generation). What is common to both is the power and surety of the message. If the Holy Spirit has determined to give you this gift, you must not neglect it; for your neglect will grieve Him and harm the body of Christ.

Please note that this is simply a suggested starting point; not the final answer for you and your spheres of influence. You must search out the gifts of prophecy for yourself.

I close with a specific word to Workplace Leaders: God has positioned you to impact your spheres of influence for His kingdom. This is one area of particular importance to you. You have been given a platform. You are responsible for using it; and you will answer to the Master when He returns. Please let me know how I can help you in this regard; I am here to serve you.

Humbly yours and forever His,