“For you can all prophesy… so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged.” (1 Corinthians 14:31)
In this blog and my latest sermon series, we’ve been discussing ways God communicates with us. He reveals himself through his creation, through his word, through our experiences, and through both supernatural and natural means.
But you might be surprised to know that very often, God communicates through you and me! That’s right! He gives spiritual gifts, and when we’re faithful to share them with others, the body of Christ is instructed and encouraged.
Years ago, in 2005, a church member came up to me after service. At the time, my mother was in the hospital, but her prognosis was good. This sweet young lady had a “word” for me.
She said something along the lines of, “You and Chris are walking on a gravel road, barefooted. You want the Lord to take the gravel away because it hurts. But God’s going to toughen your feet.”
That was it. I thanked her and didn’t really know what to do with that word. I knew it related to my mom’s illness, but the doctors said things would be fine. The barefoot walk wasn’t all that painful.
Shockingly, mom died within a couple weeks. In my grief, I went back to that conversation.
Those few words, spoken in genuine love by a sweet young lady, were a huge encouragement to me. God knew and loved our family. He was with us. He was going to take care of us. Yes, it was a painful journey, but the Lord “toughened our feet.”
God knows everything you’re going through today – and what the people sitting next to you in church are going through. He wants to communicate his love and care to you and to them. If we can learn to hear his voice, he may just use us to do that!
See you in church!
