(By Ryan Lestrange) “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, lest they be discouraged” (Col. 3:21, MEV).
I have read this verse many times and always applied it as a natural father dealing with children, but I believe there is another level. This same verse can be applied to spiritual fathers. Spiritual fathers are called to identify, declare, impart, activate and release the next generation to destiny. If we hold them back, squashing the authentic calling upon their lives, we create a well of bitterness and anger.
How many world changers have been sidelined by Saul leaders who refused to empower and equip them? All too often, apostolic leaders who should be identifying and activating the next generation instead restrict and control them. They place a demonic lid upon their gifts and potential because they are operating from a place of deep insecurity. When their protégés begin to advance beyond them, it triggers their insecurity just as Saul became enraged by David’s acceleration. CONTINUE
