Want to be filled with gifts of the Spirit? Desire greater anointings? Want to speak in tongues and prophecy? Press in!   

So often I see people struggle to receive the gifts of the Spirit, especially tongues. Eventually, they usually conclude that tongues or prophecy is just not for them. Possibly you speak in tongues but struggle to operate in other prophetic giftings. I want to encourage you, God has greater things for you! Paul directed us to “earnestly desire the higher gifts.” (1 Corinthians 12:31) and to “earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy.” (1 Corinthians 14:1) He put a priority on the pursuit of the prophetic and I encourage you to do the same.   

“We will not accidentally lay hold of the highest things God has called us to do. We must press into them, knowing that the devil presses back.”

Earnestly Desire

The reason so many lacks spiritual giftings is simply because they are not earnestly desiring them. What does that look like, exactly? The phrase “earnestly desire” in 1 Corinthians 12 comes from the Greek word “zéloó” literally meaning “to be jealous.” It speaks of a deep desire, pursuit or longing and is where we get the word zealous. Would you describe your pursuit of the prophetic as zealous? Mike Bickle stated, “We will not accidentally lay hold of the highest things God has called us to do. We must press into them, knowing that the devil presses back.” 1  

Herein is the issue that so many struggles with, they simply lack the motivation and/or discipline to press into what God has made available. Like any manager who has entrusted a great deal to their employee, there is a level of responsibility that must first be presented. God tests those with whom He has entrusted with a powerful anointing. I truly believe that many avoid contending for a higher gift simply because they fear the scrutiny that will be associated with it. “…everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.” (Luke 12:48)   

In full disclosure, operating in greater anointings will test your relationship with God. Every time I have gone up a level, God has required a greater commitment from me. He is patient and kind, but He is just. Those to whom he gives much authority to will be expected to make great steps of faith, and at times, great sacrifice. Think of the disciples. They were anointed greatly and tasked with taking the gospel to the ends of the earth. All but one would give their life for Christ; and yet, they planted the seeds of faith that bloom still today. At times they were powerhouses of faith, other times, they were filled with fear or doubt. Jesus taught them to pray and fast, to go expecting all needs supplied, and to take authority in His name. We must do the same. I know there are those who hunger for more at any cost and I pray this speaks to you.

Resist The Devil

Mike pointed to a second issue, the devil will resist any attempt you will make towards a more powerful anointing. I don’t mean to scare you, but Satan will cause any pebble to seem like a mountain. He very well may throw the kitchen sink at you and your family. I can’t overemphasize being ready to go on the offense.   

Recently, as we cried out for a greater anointing in our church, we were hit with all kinds of obstacles. A family member was diagnosed with a severe illness, we were psychologically strained, even three of our pets became ill. Bella, our boxer took a high fever for three weeks. After repeated Vet trips and medications, she was none better and close to death. God revealed that this was a demonic attack on our family and Brittany and I was led to take authority. You may think it is silly to pray for a dog, but we did. I wasn’t willing to give that devil even an inch! Within hours, Bella’s fever was gone and she has made a remarkable recovery.  

We prayed and decreed until God spoke. He gave fresh revelations about our ministry that breathed in a new life where it was needed. We decreed healing and continue to do so! Be ready to use those gifts that you are seeking. Anything worth having is worth fighting for. Satan fears a strong and fearless bride. When you operate the anointing, no devil in hell can stop you. Draw the blood-line where the enemy cannot cross. Release God’s words from your mouth and take dominion from the enemy. Boldly go before the throne and fearlessly proclaim the name of the Lord!   

Press In!

Never underestimate the power of pressing in. When you pray and fast, God hears. He is drawn to those who are searching after Him. Trust me, God is hungry for us to begin calling out with desire. He is searching for those who are set apart for His glory. Do not think that you are disqualified from a certain gift. I have noticed that Satan is the only one mentioning how unqualified I am. God has never responded with disappointment or disproval when I seek Him with a hungry heart.   

We have all seen ministers fall and misuse anointings. Should this dissuade you from seeking more? Absolutely not. Satan counts on a weak, ineffective, and ignorant church that has no response to his tactics. I would much rather be on the side that spreads the Kingdom of God with authority. Jesus prodded, “He that has ears, let him hear.” Of course, they all had ears, but would they use them? God has given you the tools to spread His kingdom. These gifts were bought with His blood. Will you press in?   

  1. Bickle, Mike. “After God’s Own Heart.”  Charisma House, 2009. p. 99