“We don’t rise above just because we want to.”
It's Time to Build and Feed: A Prophetic Word for 2025
When I returned from New Zealand and Tonga, I found myself reflecting deeply on a simple yet profound truth: the call to build and to feed. It all began when I preached on Noah and the ark, and the imagery of the ark rising above the floodwaters stayed with me. I felt compelled to share this message because it resonated with something God was stirring in me—the realization that rising above doesn’t happen by chance or mere intention. It requires a commitment to striving higher and being better, both individually and collectively.
I remember saying, “We don’t rise above just because we want to.” A building, leaders, or events alone won’t transform us. It’s the commitment to grow and build—to become who God has called us to be—that makes the difference. This idea of building, however, isn’t about physical structures or outward accomplishments. It’s about building people, relationships, and a church that truly reflects God’s heart.
I’ve been spending time in Genesis 6 since December 23rd, revisiting and meditating on the story of Noah. It’s clear to me now: it’s time to build. But why do we need to build? The answer lies in the same reason Noah was called to build—to prepare a refuge, a place of safety, and a vessel for transformation amid a world filled with wickedness.
Building, in God’s eyes, goes beyond the physical. I think about how our efforts in selling fireworks, while practical, also built connections and relationships. Those moments, seemingly small, created bonds that have eternal significance. Relationships often preach louder than sermons ever could. They reveal who we are without masks, offering a glimpse of Christ in our interactions.
The story of Noah highlights the importance of obedience and commitment. For 600 years, Noah lived surrounded by evil, yet he remained faithful to God. His righteousness wasn’t a product of his environment but of his choices. That’s a reminder to all of us—we’re not defined by what surrounds us but by the decisions we make to follow God’s ways.
God’s heart was broken by the wickedness of humanity. This part of the story struck me deeply. Imagine a God whose heart aches for the state of His creation. And yet, He calls us to be the agents of change—to intervene, to build, and to reflect His heart to the world. In Tucson, I believe God is raising up a church that will heal His broken heart. It’s a church that understands the weight of its calling and the importance of building and feeding.
Noah’s obedience was extraordinary. God gave him specific instructions to build an ark, not knowing what rain or floods were. He wasn’t a shipbuilder, yet he trusted God’s voice. His actions were moved by fear—not fear of the world but reverent fear of God’s word and command. That fear compelled him to act, to prepare, and to save his family and the future of humanity.
As I reflect on our church, I’m reminded of the same need to act with urgency and faith. God has called us to build—not just a building but a community. It’s about creating a structure that can hold and carry what God is sending. However, the ark wasn’t eternal, and neither are our physical structures. What lasts is the impact we make on people’s lives.
I’m deeply convicted that we must not only build but also feed. Building without feeding leads to emptiness. Noah ensured that everyone in the ark—people and animals alike—had food to sustain them. In the same way, we are called to feed God’s people with His word, His presence, and His truth. It’s not enough to create a space; we must nurture and grow what God has entrusted to us.
As we step into this season of building, I’m reminded that it’s not about us. It’s about being obedient to God’s command and trusting Him to provide the resources, skills, and strength we need. Whether it’s starting new ministries, planting churches, or simply stepping out in faith, we’re called to participate fully in what God is doing. It’s not always easy, and there will be challenges, but the reward is eternal.
I’m encouraged by Noah’s example and the promise that God establishes His covenant with those who walk faithfully with Him. As we build, we’re preparing a refuge for those who are lost and hurting. We’re creating a space where families can find hope and healing, where God’s presence dwells, and where His kingdom advances.
So I ask you: Are you ready to build? Are you ready to feed? Let’s commit ourselves to this calling with the same faith and obedience that Noah demonstrated. Together, we can rise above, not by chance but by purpose, as we walk faithfully with our God.
