Dealing with Turtles - A prophetic word received...

Pastor Joy and I received a prophetic word from one of our most trusted members at ICCJ on Sunday afternoon. It resonated completely with us and I want to share it with you:

In the sanctuary, turtles were popping up out of the ground and I was shooting them. I wasn't killing them but whenever I would shoot, they would recover from whatever issue they had. But they didn't want to be shot. It was truly hunting but for the turtles own good.

Then because many turtles had already been shot, some were heading for the door of the sanctuary but Pastor Joy closed it so that the turtles could not escape. She said, "No! You aren't leaving here until you deal with your problems!" Then with discernment from God knowing where the turtles would pop up would grab them, not allowing them to hide again, giving me more time to shoot them. As a team we went on a very effective turtle shooting spree.

The turtles of course represent people in the Church and we were able to help them to overcome their challenges even more effectively when we worked together. Me with the God given method of effecting change on them (the shooting) and Joy with the God given fore-knowledge to identify them. This of course represents the never ending process of making disciples in so many ways...

Some of the most amazing "light-bulb" moments that I have experienced have been when I have given prophetic words. Sometimes these words seem as important for me as for the ones receiving them. I remember several years ago praying for a Pastor and his wife who were very obviously beaten up and heart broken through the rigours of ministry. I perceived they were using up the last of their strength and were considering quitting at least the Church if not their marriage. I saw and spoke that she was supposed to take the role as a sword in his hand. That the key to their effectiveness in ministry was to work together. If he would learn to skillfully utilize her in their joint ministry, then they would have the strength and the courage to once again achieve fruitfulness and happiness. If he would realize that though she is sharp, she won't cut him if he will work with her properly... that she will only cut things when submitted to his hand and then they would once again make great strides for the Kingdom. They had stopped working together for many reasons but it had been a mistake.

Pastor Joy and I are committed to working together more and more and we want other couples in our Church and otherwise to commit to doing the same. It is God's plan that husband and wife work together. That doesn't make it easy, but it is worthwhile. We thank God for once again reminding us of the power of unity and I pray that you are also blessed as you consider God's guidance and apply it to your life as well.