Not only does prophecy provide edification and exhortation, it also brings comfort. That’s something we all need because a certain amount of trouble is guaranteed to come to the life of every believer.
I’m not being negative when I say that. I’m just quoting Jesus. After speaking extensively to His disciples by the spirit of prophecy just before He went to the cross, He said:
These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)
When we’re just thinking natural, fleshly thoughts, it’s hard to be of good cheer in times of trouble. It’s tough to walk in overcoming faith when circumstances seem overwhelming. In times like that, prophecy is a great help. It connects us with the spirit of Jesus and the truth of His victorious power. It reminds us that His power is abiding within us. It serves as a healing balm and a source of strength.
During times of stress, you can be totally delivered from the oppression of Satan. You can overcome his attacks and break free from the pain and pressure they bring by praying, speaking, and singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. By opening your mouth and giving testimony from your heart of the redeeming power of Jesus, you can connect with the spirit of prophecy in the midst of the most troubling situations and put the Devil under your feet.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 27:1 – 6
On the chilly March night in 1972 when Lynne Hammond took her first step into a life of Spirit-led prayer, she had no idea what was about to happen. All she knew was the hunger in her heart for God wouldn’t let her sleep. In the few short months she’d been born again, her desire to fellowship with Him had grown so strong she could hardly contain it. “Help me, God!” she cried. “I want to know you. I want to be able to talk to you. Please, teach me to pray!”
Suddenly, a heavenly presence flooded the room. Lynne sensed waves of spiritual fire sweeping over her and a beautiful language began to flow like a river from within her. Although she’d never heard of the baptism of the Holy Spirit, she knew instantly, without a doubt—this was God!
What began that night soon blossomed into a life of prayer that ultimately became a ministry of prayer when, in 1980, Lynne and her husband, Mac, founded Living Word Christian Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Under Lynne’s leadership, the prayer ministry at Living Word has become an internationally recognized model for developing effective pray-ers in the local church.
A teacher and an author, Lynne publishes a newsletter called Prayer Notes, has written numerous books, and currently serves as the national prayer director for Daughters for Zion. Her passion for inspiring and leading others into the life of Spirit-led prayer continues to take her around the world to minister to believers whose heart cry, like hers, is “Lord, teach me to pray!”