The rhema word refers to the revealed, personal word of God that applies specifically to an individual’s life and situation. It comes from the Greek word “rhema” which means “an utterance” or “that which is spoken.” In contrast to the general logos word of God, the rhema word is a specific word or verse that the Holy Spirit brings alive and speaks intimately to a believer.
The key characteristics of the rhema word are:
It is a living, active word from God
Hebrews 4:12 says “For the word of God is living and active…” The rhema is not just scripture written on a page, but scripture made alive by the Spirit to penetrate our hearts. It is the voice of God speaking directly to us.
It addresses a specific need or situation
While the logos word provides general principles, the rhema word applies God’s truth to the details of our lives. It speaks to the exact circumstance or decision we are facing. For example, someone struggling with fear and anxiety may suddenly have Isaiah 41:10 impressed upon them by the Spirit: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
It provides guidance, encouragement or conviction
The rhema word gives us wisdom for decisions, comfort in difficulty, or even loving conviction of sin. It acts like a compass pointing us in the right direction. A rhema word may sometimes confirm guidance we have already sensed in our spirit. At other times, it will shine new light or challenge our thinking.
It comes through spiritual revelation
Rhema words are revealed to our spirit by the Holy Spirit, often spontaneously. We suddenly have a verse or phrase brought to mind even though we weren’t thinking about it. Or a verse will repeatedly stand out as we read Scripture. Receiving rhema words involves spiritual discernment to recognize the quiet whisper of the Spirit.
It remains alive in our memory and spirit
Unlike simply reading a verse in the Bible, the rhema word abides within us, continuing to speak encouragement or conviction long after we first received it. We can carry it in our heart through seasons of life.
Examples of rhema words in Scripture
There are many examples in the Bible where God spoke very specifically into people’s situations:
– The angel Gabriel’s message to Mary that she would give birth to Jesus (Luke 1:26-38)
– Jesus’ words to Peter about forgiving “seventy times seven” in response to his question about how much to forgive (Matthew 18:21-22)
– God’s word to Joshua to be strong and courageous as he led Israel after Moses’ death (Joshua 1:1-9)
– Jesus’ words that Paul would take the gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 26:16-18)
– The Spirit telling Philip to approach the Ethiopian eunuch’s chariot (Acts 8:29)
In each case, the word was timely, relevant, and spoke to exactly what the person needed to hear from God at that moment.
How to receive rhema words
Since rhema words come from the Holy Spirit, having a close relationship with God is essential for receiving them. Here are some ways to position ourselves to hear God’s voice:
– Study Scripture regularly – the Bible is the source of rhema words, so immersing ourselves in it primes our spirit to receive personal revelation.
– Ask God for timely words – we can directly ask God to speak into specific situations. Jeremiah 33:3 says “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”
– Cultivate spiritual discernment – we learn to recognize God’s voice from our own thoughts and distinguish it from other spiritual voices. Check rhema words against Scripture.
– Listen in prayer – we quiet our mind and listen for the Spirit’s promptings as we pray about decisions or challenges.
– Be attentive throughout the day – rhema words can come at any time, so we tune our spirit to hear God’s voice throughout each day.
– Record rhema words – writing down the word and date helps us remember it. We can return to past rhemas and see how God has been faithfully speaking into our lives.
Rhema words in spiritual warfare
Rhema words can be very powerful when we face spiritual battles. God can bring verses to mind that counter the enemy’s lies with specific truths. Some key examples are:
– Satan’s accusation countered with Romans 8:1 – “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
– Feeling distant from God met with Psalm 145:18 – “The Lord is near to all who call on him.”
– Fear of the future overcome with Jeremiah 29:11 – “‘For I know the plans I have for you’, declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'”
– Intimidation broken with 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
Speaking these rhema promises from Scripture builds our faith and breaks strongholds. The Spirit can bring just the right verse to liberate us into freedom and victory.
Dangers of pursuing rhema words
While rhema words are meant to encourage believers, there are some potential pitfalls to avoid:
– Treating new rhemas as more valuable than consistent Scripture study. The logos word must remain foundational.
– Looking for rhemas to justify poor decisions. They should be weighed carefully against biblical truth.
– Becoming overly mystical and subjective. Rhema words must be tested as to their source and accuracy.
– Creating a “rhema of the day” dependency. God meets us through different means, not only rhemas.
– Judging others who don’t seem to receive rhemas. There are many ways to hear from God.
– Receiving imagined or false words. We must test rhemas and reject any that contradict Scripture.
So rhema words can profoundly encourage and guide believers who receive them. But they must be handled carefully and wisely in light of the whole counsel of God’s Word. Discernment is key when it comes to applying this special, personal revelation from the Spirit.
Conclusion
The rhema word is a treasured concept for many believers who have experienced the Spirit speaking powerfully into their lives through key verses and passages. While not all Christians use the term “rhema” the reality is that God delights in giving tailored words of truth to strengthen, comfort and guide His children. Receiving rhemas should not become an emotional pursuit in itself, but be part of a spiritually mature, Bible-grounded walk with God. As we study the logos and listen for the rhema with open hearts, we will be nourished and established in our faith, equipped for every good work.