A Word

“I have heard these prophets say, ‘Listen to the dream I had from God last night.’ And then they proceed to tell lies in my name. How long will this go on? If they are prophets, they are prophets of deceit, inventing everything they say. By telling these false dreams, they are trying to get my people to forget me, just as their ancestors did by worshiping the idols of Baal. “Let these false prophets tell their dreams, but let my true messengers faithfully proclaim my every word. There is a difference between straw and grain! Does not my word burn like fire?” says the Lord. “Is it not like a mighty hammer that smashes a rock to pieces? “Therefore,” says the Lord, “I am against these prophets who steal messages from each other and claim they are from me. I am against these smooth-tongued prophets who say, ‘This prophecy is from the Lord !’ I am against these false prophets. Their imaginary dreams are flagrant lies that lead my people into sin. I did not send or appoint them, and they have no message at all for my people. I, the Lord, have spoken! (Jeremiah 23:25-32 NLT)

The Word that comes from God is first of all, truth.  It will speak truth about God and is not opposing to what His Word says.  When we hear a word from The Lord, it must not contradict His ways and His written word.  It must draw people to His feet and not shun them away... God's word that He gives to people are unifying in nature. It does not divide the body of Christ.  

This is a very good indicator of whether or not a person who has a "word" from The Lord is really true or that it really comes from God.  This is a good indicator for me to know that when I hear a word from The Lord, it must draw people closer to Him and not bring them away. Though we know some may not respond to them, when ends them up going away, it wasn't because of the Word, but rather it was their own free will and misunderstanding of God's word. 

God's Word is unifying.  I must hear clearly and I must check whether or not it is from His Word, before I speak it out to people.  I must make sure that it is a word from God that brings ultimate glory to His name, and people would turn to Him because His Word. I will listen carefully and be keen to the Word God reveals to me.  Not speaking out hastily but to be zealous with knowledge that I may not miss the way.

// Lord, I only want to hear from you and not be like the lying prophets.  I want to hear you clearly and make sure that is really you speaking - one that lines up with your Word and brings repentance to people as they hear it.  Be glorified in my life.  I only want to do your will.  In Jesus' name, amen.