The Friend of the Prophet By Major Frank Materu
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
(Isaiah 55:8–9, NIV)
Introduction
Human understanding often stands in stark contrast to God's wisdom. While we perceive ourselves as upright, in truth, we may be standing upside-down—our perspectives distorted, our ways misaligned with His divine path.
God's call to His people, especially to those entrusted with the prophetic office, is a call to realignment, to spiritual maturity, and to unwavering faithfulness. This article explores the unique calling of prophets, the sanctity of God’s Word, and the necessity of holiness in His service.
Man's Limited Perspective and God's Higher Ways
As humans, we often think our ways are sound and our thoughts righteous. However, God’s wisdom surpasses all understanding. His ways are not only higher than ours—they are perfect.
"But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned."
(1 Corinthians 2:14, NKJV)
We may believe we stand upright, but in truth, our human perspective can be like standing on our heads.
Everything appears distorted until we allow God to straighten us according to His will.
The Call to Spiritual Maturity
"Brothers and sisters, I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly—mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready."
(1 Corinthians 3:1–2, NIV)
God, in His mercy, tolerates certain behaviors in His people when they are spiritually immature. However, as His children grow in faith, He expects greater accountability.
What was permissible in spiritual infancy becomes unacceptable in maturity.
Jesus warned against desecrating the sacred:
“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”
(Matthew 7:6, NIV)
The truth of God is holy and must be treated with reverence. Believers are called to honor His Word, recognizing it as pure and sacred.
The Prophet and His Friend
A prophet’s relationship with God is unlike any other. When God calls a prophet, He becomes their closest and only true friend.
Prophets are not meant to seek human companionship to the detriment of their faithfulness to God’s Word.
"Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets."
(Amos 3:7, NIV)
God calls prophets to declare His Word, not defend it. The Word of God defends itself. It is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). A prophet’s role is to faithfully proclaim His message, trusting that God will accomplish His purposes.
God’s Holy Warfare
"Without holiness, no one will see the Lord."
(Hebrews 12:14, NIV)
God is calling His people into holiness because He is a holy God, and holiness is a prerequisite for His presence.
In this call, He initiates a divine battle against forces of darkness that seek to destroy and defile.
Even now, God is stirring His people to return to Him.
Through trials and pressures, He reminds humanity of His sovereignty and draws them back to His presence.
Those who respond will become His spiritual warriors, empowered to carry His fire into the world.
Repentance: A Cry for His People
"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."
(2 Chronicles 7:14, NIV)
God longs for His people to repent. However, many have hardened their hearts, refusing to see their sins or turn back to Him.
Prophets are called to intercede, crying out for the repentance of God’s people, even when they seem unwilling to acknowledge their need for forgiveness.
Conclusion
God is calling His people to realign with His higher ways. As the Friend of Prophets, He equips His chosen messengers to proclaim His Word faithfully, even in a world that resists truth. Holiness is the foundation for His divine work, and repentance is the gateway to restoration.
Let us embrace the sacredness of His calling, honor His Word, and walk faithfully in His ways. In doing so, we will stand upright before Him, as His holy and chosen people.
“Be holy, because I am holy.”
(1 Peter 1:16, NIV)
May we respond to His call with reverence and obedience, knowing that the holy battle has begun, and victory belongs to the Lord.
