Receiving Revelation from God for Others

A frequent question I’m asked is what to do if we feel we’re not receiving revelation from God. Sometimes we want to hear God for ourselves but in this message, I’ll discuss receiving revelation from God for others.

When I want to give someone a prophetic word, I begin by requesting information from God. This might sound obvious to some but it’s a step many of us overlook. The Bible says we have not because we ask not. Yes, He is God, and He knows our needs but we’re not being presumptuous or rude by asking Him to give us revelation for someone.  Ask Him to show you something specific. But here’s a warning: Be prepared to receive something as soon as you ask. Many times the revelation you’ll receive is nothing more than a brief thought impression or an image that flashes in your mind. It can appear quickly and then disappear.

Soon after I began giving prophetic words, I was at a meeting when I received a word from a mature prophet. He looked at me and said, “You doubt what God is saying. You’re not sure that what you’re hearing is from Him and here’s what He wants you to know: The first thought that enters your mind after you’ve asked—that’s Him.” I’ve found this to be true. In most cases, the first thought impression that enters my mind after I’ve asked God for revelation is what He wants me to know.

After you’ve asked Him to reveal something, expect Him to speak in whatever way He wants. It may be a thought impression. It might be an image in your mind or a series of images, or something that appears to be a video. It might be a strong emotion that suddenly grips you. It might be a sudden pain in your body. Try not to assume too much about what He’s going to reveal to you.

As you’re receiving revelation, you might begin a dialog with Him to clarify what it means, if you’re not certain. This can be particularly helpful if you’re new to prophecy. You can have the conversation aloud as if you’re talking to a friend nearby, or it can be in your mind between you and Him. If you have questions, ask for clarification. You might receive new thought impressions, visions, or other revelation.

Giving a Prophetic Word
Once you’re clear about what you want to say, simply say it. You can use your normal tone of voice. It isn’t necessary to raise your voice or emphasize certain words. You don’t have to say things like “the Lord says” or “thus sayeth the Lord.” You don’t need to call the person “my son” or “my daughter.” You don’t need to be weird when you prophesy. I sometimes give people prophetic words in public places like hospitals. I can’t afford to be dramatic or appear overly religious in these settings. It’s fine to speak the way you would if you were having a normal conversation with a friend.

A few years ago, my wife and I visited a shopping mall while on vacation. As she looked for dresses, I gave people encouraging words. It began when I asked God for a word for a male store employee. In my mind’s eye, I saw the word “insecurity,” so I encouraged him in the area of developing strength and security in his life. I also asked God for a word for a female employee. As I closed my eyes, I saw the word “inspiration.” I told her she was inspiring to others and that God would use her to be even more inspirational in the future. A prophetic word can be very short. It doesn’t require you to get to know the people you’re prophesying to, though if time allows, God can speak to them even more if you’re able to spend a few minutes getting to know them. Receiving revelation from God is relational. It flows from our relationship with Him and it can help build relationships with others.

This is an excerpt from my book Hearing God’s Voice Made Simple. Click on the link or on the image below to learn more. 

Related:
How God Speaks Through Our Emotions
How To Know If What You’re Hearing is From God