In the New Testament, God emphasised different things to each of the seven churches in Revelation. Why? Because they each had a different assignment and faced different challenges. It’s wise to read good books and listen to good mentors and teachers, but don’t assume that what God told them is what He is telling you. There are times when you need to hear from Him for yourself.

You may adopt certain principles, but you must get your plan from God. That’s why it’s sometimes hard for God to get through to preachers. When He speaks to them personally, they give it an introduction, three points, and a conclusion—and preach it to others! And as a spiritual leader, there is another potential pitfall: trying to get ‘a word’ for others because they happen to be bothering you. Let God straighten them out and get back to where you belong!

Paul wrote, ‘We will boast only about what has happened within the boundaries of the work God has given us.’ (2 Corinthians 10:13 NLT) Your authority and anointing depend on being where God wants you to be, doing what He wants you to do. When you’re driven by ego, or other people’s expectations, or a goal God gave to someone else, you’re setting yourself up to fail. You must hear from God for yourself. If you’re assigned—you’re confined! You can’t go where you like and do as you please, so ask God to crown your efforts with success. If you’re in the wrong place, doing the wrong thing, don’t let pride keep you there.

Pray, ‘What does my Lord say to His servant?’ Then, do it!