look for ways to illustrate the prophetic word

[HelenaZF]

It seems like a simple concept....the prophetic word is coming forth, either in a song or in spoken words. As you hear it, the language might be invoking images.....the king in His court, streams of water, fire burning, climbing a mountain, gathering the wounded....



Think about how much more memorable the words will be if they are illustrated by a visual component. If we are really in the moment and perceive that this is a theme of the Spirit in the word that is coming forth, we can move out and provide that visual illustration. Sometimes with mime, sometimes with flags or banners or holy objects, sometimes with expressive dance. For example, an ongoing prophetic chant inspired by some of the throne room proclamations in Revelations could be the occasion to bring out a kingly banner, some crowns and a scepter.



We had the opportunity to bring the visual to the prophetic word in a recent worship gathering. A prophetic song came forth about the streams rushing out, going forth and bringing refreshment to the people. I led the dance team up to the front as we all made grand sweeping movements, as if we were flinging the refreshing waters out toward the congregation. At another point, there was a word about how we are like arrows who need to submit to the archer so that we can be properly aimed and lauched with power and accuracy. The prophecy was followed by a song called "We will stand". The song provided a perfect vehicle for the dancers to each take an arrow and present it to the Lord as if we were presenting ourselves for service. Just a few simple offering-up motions, and the point (so to speak!) was powerfully illustrated.



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I think the key to ministering this way (aside from knowing you have the freedom to do it!) is to be in the moment....something that is easier understood than actually accomplished. Our minds tend to go in many directions at once and are not always focused on the thing right before us. It takes discipline to keep our attention ever ready to grasp that sometimes split-second oppportunity to move out once we have discerned the moment.



But it starts with awareness. Awareness that we have the power to bring life through this type of ministry, and the awareness that the Lord will use us this way if we make ourselves available.