Words that Edify

Job 39-40; 1 Corinthians 13-14 

“For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears…But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort…he who prophesies edifies the church.”

1 Corinthians 13:9, 10; 14:3, 4

The gift of prophesy, which Paul encouraged the Corinthians to receive and practice, is to be focused on strengthening, encouraging, and comforting the Church. From the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. The condition of our heart influences how the prophetic words are communicated. We prophesy in part because we do not see or hear as clearly as we will in heaven. What we see and hear with our spiritual eyes and ears is “in part” and is influenced by our maturity, faith, and the condition of our heart when used properly. The gift of prophesy edifies and builds up the Church. When used with immaturity or in pain, the gift of prophesy can do much damage. The answer to wrong use of this gift is not ‘nonuse,’ but ‘right use.’

Do we eagerly desire to receive and practice spiritual gifts?

“Lord Jesus, speak to and through me, for your glory.”