If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet. | Matthew 10:14
God is promoting many of the forerunners in this hour: the ones who have gone through much refining and pruning; the ones who have been prepared in the secret place, even as David’s heart was prepared as he worshipped in the fields with his flock. God is now bringing the forerunners out of hiding, releasing them as arrows from an archer’s bow. These ones will go forth, bringing much light to the darkness.
He made my mouth like a sharpened sword,
in the shadow of his hand he hid me;
he made me into a polished arrow
and concealed me in his quiver (Isaiah 49:2).
Remember the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis? He was sold to slavery by his older brothers who were jealous of his prophetic abilities to analyze dreams. Even now, in the very midst of promotion, jealously is rising up from the ‘older brothers.’ They target the forerunners, even though the forerunners are obeying what the Lord has instructed them to do. As I look back on the story of Joseph, I remember how he, too, experienced this backlash. However, all of the circumstances led up to a greater promotion; he would soon transition from the prison to the palace.
Often times in the natural, promotion doesn’t look or feel like promotion. Even so, you are bringing brought to the forefront. Amidst the judging and wagging tongues you have encountered on your journey, the Lord is saying, “Beloved, continue to walk in love, and bless those who persecute you. However, I give you permission to shake the dust from your feet when you encounter those who do not receive you or the message I’ve given you. You owe no man nothing, except to love him (Romans 13:8).
“Do not apologize or shrink back from the favor and promotion I’ve given you. Walk forward, bold and courageous, as I expand you and increase your influence. Even as Esther found much favor in the eyes of the king, so you also have much favor with Me. I alone am your Great Defender, and I am well pleased with you. Do not fear the opinion of man, for all that is hidden will be revealed, and your life will speak loudly of My goodness. Keep walking forward, and shake the dust,” says the Lord.
Enlarge the place of your tent; stretch out the curtains of your dwellings, spare not; lengthen your cords and strengthen your pegs. “For you will spread abroad to the right and to the left . . .” (Isaiah 54:2-3).