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Jesus had this testimony, "I do nothing on My own initiative, but I speak these things as the Father taught Me" (Jn.8:28). With those of us who speak or write to others about the things of God, how close it is to speak out our own ideas! The clever sayings with which to impress others, or to manipulate the listeners – these are so close to us that we may not even recognise sometimes what is happening. Do we also realise that Satan himself may come in the form of an angel of light and whisper into our mind wrong ideas in a such a way that we think they are true (Mt.4:3). This is how we may, unknowingly, originate doctrines of demons (1Ti.4:1). If we look around, we can see that this has happened even in the case of those who have been recognised as 'godly' brothers, who are known for their godly teachings, except that suddenly they come out with a wrong doctrine.

Recognising this possibility is something that should put a fear in our mind and prevent us from glibly coming out with all kinds of new teachings.

But avoiding wrong teachings is not our only goal. O to be able to hear from God and bring out His teachings to His people at the right time! We are all fallible people and we all make mistakes. But can't it be the longing of our heart never to do or speak anything on our own initiative and to speak or write only things that come from the Father? That is to speak prophetically! "One who prophesies speaks to men for edification and exhortation and consolation" (1Co.14:3). This is not to impress others or to make a name for ourselves but simply for the benefit of the listeners! Sometimes, the word that is needed is for correction, which may make us unpopular. But that is what the Father wants us to share.

Those who share the word of God are like watchmen whom God appoints. The responsibility God gives to such people is, "When I say to the wicked, 'You will surely die,' and you do not warn him or speak out to warn the wicked from his wicked way that he may live, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity, but his blood I will require at your hand" (Ez.3:18). At the same time, to have the privilege of being entrusted by God to share His provisions with others is too precious to be taken lightly. "And the Lord said, 'Who then is the faithful and sensible steward, whom his master will put in charge of his servants, to give them their rations at the proper time?' Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes. Truly I say to you that he will put him in charge of all his possessions" (Lk.12:42-44).

It is not just about speaking or writing. Jesus gave the perfect example of doing nothing on His own initiative. We don't become like that overnight but we can grow towards it if we set our mind on it. Can't we set that as our goal and work towards it, not giving up even when we slip up? I am reminded again and again of what someone said as a motto, "To bless, and not to impress!"

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