Interpreting prophetic words from the Lord requires wisdom, discernment, and an understanding of Biblical principles. Here are some guidelines when seeking to understand a prophetic word you have received:
1. Test the word
The Bible tells us to test every prophetic word and not to despise prophecies but to test them (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21). We are to test the spirits to see if they are from God (1 John 4:1). This involves judging the content of the word – does it contradict God’s character or His word? A true prophetic word will always align with Scripture.
2. Consider the context and timing
Sometimes a prophetic word makes little sense at first. But when we understand the context, timing, and circumstances around it, the meaning becomes clearer. God often speaks to our current situation or reveals something about our future. We need to prayerfully consider when and how a word might come to pass.
3. Look for confirmation
God will often confirm a legitimate prophetic word in various ways. This may be through other believers, trusted spiritual leaders,circumstances, or even our own spirit bearing witness with the word. The confirmation helps cement the word as being from God (2 Corinthians 13:1).
4. Watch for fulfillment
As we patiently wait on the Lord, we can continue to watch and pray concerning a prophetic word, looking for signs of its fulfillment. God is always faithful when He speaks, though timing may be unexpected. Fulfillment of a word strengthens our faith and brings encouragement.
5. Don’t cling to partial revelations
Sometimes we only receive part of the picture through a prophetic word. We may wrongly interpret, assign meaning, or make assumptions about vague words. We need to hold prophecy loosely, with an open hand, avoiding dogmatism. The full revelation awaits us in glory (1 Corinthians 13:9).
6. Seek wise counsel
It’s prudent to seek out spiritually mature believers who can help us weigh and interpret prophetic words we’ve received. They may be able to discern things we cannot, or share broader insights into the ways of God concerning the word. This protects us from deception and potential misapplication.
7. Pray for understanding
As with all spiritual matters, we need to seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance when interpreting prophetic words. He knows the mind and will of God and illuminates Scripture for us (1 Corinthians 2:12-14). We can pray for wisdom and revelation concerning any prophetic word so we apply it correctly (Ephesians 1:17-19).
8. Consider who gave the word
The character and motivations of the person delivering a prophetic word are important to weigh. Are they submitted to authority? What is their relationship with God? Do they display spiritual maturity and wisdom? While no prophet is perfect, these attributes give credibility.
9. Don’t become fixated
We should not become consumed or paranoid about prophecies given to us. Our focus is to be on Jesus Christ and daily following Him. While we ponder and pray over prophetic words, we must continue to trust and rest in God’s sovereignty over all things.
10. Think application, not information
Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how to apply a prophetic word, not just interpret information. How He wants you to act on it. What He is speaking to personally. How He wishes to use the word to encourage, edify and equip you on your spiritual journey.
In summary, true prophetic words from the Lord require time, prayer and wisdom to properly understand and apply. We weigh them carefully against the truth of Scripture. Rightly handled, they become a blessing that helps us follow Jesus more wholeheartedly and advance His Kingdom.
While awesome and miraculous, prophecy is subject to limitations, human frailties and partial understanding this side of eternity (1 Corinthians 13:9). We must hold it humbly and lightly. But as we submit prophetic words to God’s perfect revelatory system, they can powerfully shape our lives according to His will and purposes.
Through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, and the testing of prophecy against the Bible, we can gain insight into God’s personal words for our lives or churches. Prophetic words call us to fresh encounters with Jesus, renewed faith, and deeper intimacy with God.
By leaning on the Holy Spirit for discernment, believers are able to weigh prophetic words appropriately. This allows us to respond in wise and meaningful ways for the glory of God. We embrace words from the Lord, while avoiding deception or unhealthy preoccupation.
As we humbly seek the Lord for understanding, prophetic words are unlocked to become timely instruction, encouragement, and strengthening of the Holy Spirit. They point us to Jesus, realign us with Scripture, and highlight what God is speaking. Interpreted correctly, they become indispensable guidance on the journey of following Christ.
The Bible reminds us in 1 Corinthians 14:1 to, “Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy.” As we heed this call, prophetic words become a valuable supernatural resource to build up and edify believers in their walk with God.
