Accessing Word Gifts in Prayer Ministry: A Biblical Foundation
Acts 2 provide an insight into how the apostles and the early church expected the Holy Spirit to speak through every believer as one of the fulfillments of the new covenant. Implicit in Peter's explanation was the immediacy of direct communication with the Holy Spirit. This means that word gifts are not reserved for a select few but are accessible to all believers who seek to minister in the power of the Spirit.
One helpful way to understand word gifts is to look at instances in the ministry of Jesus and the early church, reflect on how people hear God, share principles to recognize God's voice, and how these gifts function in prayer ministry. To hear God's voice clearly, we must draw near to Him. As Scripture promises, when we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us. The key to experiencing closeness with the Holy Spirit is not emotions or feelings, but becoming aware of His presence that is already inside of us.
Practical steps for exercising word gifts include familiarity with Scripture since the Holy Spirit and the Word of God always work in harmony. We must also cultivate a heart of gratitude and repentance. This helps us be aware of how God is at work in our world and removes barriers to our relationship.
The purpose of spiritual gifts is always for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7). Word gifts should be used to strengthen, encourage, and comfort people in their faith journey. We can access these gifts through regular prayer, Bible study, and remaining sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading.
The gift of spiritual discernment grows through maturity and faithful use of God's Word. As we stir up the gifts within us, we position ourselves to be used by God in powerful ways through prayer ministry.
The goal remains the same today as in the early church - to help people encounter God's love, receive His guidance, and grow in their relationship with Him through the supernatural insights the Spirit provides. Consider today pressing into the Spirit to hear more clearly what He has to share with you.
