Why (as a Prophet) I don’t Go Out of My Way to Come Up with a Word of Knowledge Every Time

Tired of fakery in the prophetic? Offended by manipulative tactics in ministry? This post is for those who are disappointed and even offended by many ministers lately who have been exposed for giving “fake words of knowledge.” That questionable practice is not new. Prophets and people who move in the Spirit want to meet the expectations of the people. Often, they go too far and stray into the psychic realm, which is not inherently demonic but is more a manifestation of the innate abilities of the human spirit. Worse than that is when they use technology or research to come up in the natural with what they present as information from God. How disappointing. I hurt for them, and I hurt for those disappointed by these practices. 

I’ve never talked about this issue as it relates to my own life. As someone in prophetic ministry, I’m not immune to the temptation of people-pleasing. However, I refuse to manufacture ‘words of knowledge’ to validate my calling. I never seek divine specifics upfront. Not because I’m so spiritual, but because it’s scary. I don’t want to miss God when I speak over people. Instead, during ministry, God often interjects with unexpected accuracy. People interrupt, astounded by the relevance of the message to their lives, revealing details I couldn’t have known. This spontaneous revelation glorifies God, not my ability, and removes any pressure to perform.

To those Christians who are troubled by what they perceive as “fake words of knowledge,” I offer this encouragement:

• Realize that Personal Prophecy is for Edification, Exhortation, and Comfort: If a word is slanted to do these things, then the prophet has done his job. Straying into the more spectacular aspects of this type of ministry can lead to problems, beginning with the expectations of the recipient, FIRSTLY, and then in the life and ministry of the person speaking over you. We aren’t psychics or fortune tellers! Those who teach otherwise are in error and should be corrected, starting with ourselves.
• Discernment is a Gift and a Duty: It is right to question and examine what you hear. The scriptures themselves encourage us to “test the spirits” (1 John 4:1) and to hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Your discomfort may be the Holy Spirit prompting you toward greater discernment.
• Focus on the Foundation: Remember that our faith rests on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ and the written Word of God. Let the scriptures be your anchor and guide. When teachings or practices contradict the clear message of the Bible, hold fast to the truth you know.
• Grace and Patience: Extend grace to those who may be erring, while also maintaining your own integrity. Remember that all believers are on a journey of growth. Pray for those who are straying, and trust that God is working in their lives as well.
• Seek Community and Accountability: Surround yourself with mature believers who can offer wise counsel and accountability. Discuss your concerns with trusted pastors, elders, or mentors. A community of believers can offer valuable perspective and support.
• Maintain Your Peace: Do not let these situations rob you of your joy and peace in Christ. Trust that God is sovereign and that He is working all things together for good (Romans 8:28). Focus on your personal relationship with God, and allow Him to lead you.
• Remember the Heart of the Matter: True spiritual gifts are meant to edify and build up the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 14:12). If something feels manipulative, self-serving, or contrary to the nature of God, it is right to question it.
• God is Still at Work: Do not let the actions of some diminish your faith in the power of the Holy Spirit. God is still working miracles, and He still speaks to His people. Maintain a heart open to His genuine guidance and gifts.