At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: "O Lord, God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. Answer me, O Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, O Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again." Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench. —1 Kings 18:36-38
I have observed that it is easier to get one's identity wrapped around the prophetic ministry more than any other role one may have in the body of Christ. Prophetic people often submit to others' expectations that they constantly hear from God—whether God is saying anything to them or not! I believe there is a sense in which we should make things a little "harder on God" when it comes to showing His power. Let me explain. I have pondered how Elijah poured water on the sacrifices on Mt. Carmel (1 Kings 18). He didn't add lighter fluid and strike a match behind his back! He was confident that if the genuine fire of God fell, then it could consume even a wet sacrifice. I would challenge prophetic ministers to put some "water on the sacrifices" they prepare and really trust God to prove His power without their feeling the pressure of trying to help God out so much. Then when His power is demonstrated, the people will not glorify the prophet of God, but the God of the prophet.
{ PRAYER STARTER }
Father, remove from me the desire to "set up" the scene or circumstance for You to reveal Your power. Let the power and revelation come from You, not from any "help" that I attempt to give You.
I encourage you to stay impressed with
God and His power without becoming
impressed with yourself.
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