Kris Vallotton • May 1, 2020

Does God Ever Supersede Our Will in Providential Times?

“NOW FOLLOW ME”

Do you believe in providence ? God asked me this question a few months ago for five straight days as soon as I opened my eyes each morning. I knew it was God speaking to me because the word “providence” wasn’t even in my vocabulary. In fact, I had to look up the definition to find out what it really meant. I’ll save you the trouble—providence is defined as t he foreseeing care and guidance of God over the creatures of the earth or God, directing the universe and the affairs of humankind with wise benevolence . This definition is nice and all, but God did not repeatedly ask me this question to hear me acknowledge that He was a benevolent director. No, rather He was readying my heart for an incredible prophetic revelation that I believe is not only for me but for you and for all of God’s people.

Before I share what I believe is more of a corporate prophetic word than a teaching with prophetic wisdom, let me preface it by sharing with you a vision I had years ago. In the vision, God walked very intentionally down a path yet people were standing in front of Him like defensive linemen in a football game. It may sound a little Old Testament, but God threw these men out of His way like ragdolls, one to the left and the other to the right. Then the scene shifted and instead of watching God knock these opposing men around, I was the next one in front of Him. I, too, had my guard up as if I was going to try and block God’s progress. He looked me right in the eyes and shouted, “Get out of my way!” Then He reached out to grab my arm as if to forcefully move me aside but I pivoted out of His way just in time, and when He swiftly pressed past me, I heard Him say, “Now follow me!”

ACTS OF SOVEREIGNTY AND FREEWILL

Have you ever considered that there are seasons when God is not for you nor is He against you, rather He creates sovereign times where you must get out of His way and follow? To clarify, I’m not suggesting that God is currently using pandemics, any type of terror, or quaking the earth to teach us a lesson. In fact, Isaiah 54:15-17 says, “ If anyone fiercely assails you it will not be from Me. ” I’m simply saying that God is moving in the midst of it all, and it’s vital we learn to move with Him even when we don’t understand.

Joshua experienced this type of sovereign override while camping in the desert plains of Jericho (Joshua 5:13-14). The scriptures say a man appeared before Joshua with a sword in his hand. According to the Hebrew text, it’s unclear if it was a divine messenger or the pre-incarnate Christ, but when Joshua inquired if the sword-drawn man was for him or against him, the messenger’s response was, “Neither! I am the captain of the Lord’s armies. Now, remove the sandals from your feet because you are standing on Holy ground!”

When God woke me over five mornings provoking me with the question of providence, another challenging question stirred in my spirit: did I believe God moves sovereignly inside of the new Covenant as He did with Old Testament followers such as Joshua, Moses, Abraham, and so many others? In other words, through God’s divine providence, does God supersede the will of man for the sake of His omniscient understanding today? The account of Ananias and Sapphira lying to the Holy Spirit about money in Acts 4:32-5:11 suggests that He does.

Let me be clear, my primary concern in teaching about Ananias and Sapphira is that we might create a culture out of an exception because we misunderstand the difference between a Kairos act of sovereignty and the grace-filled gravity of every day freewill in Jesus. My point in referencing this passage is that many people before Ananias and Sapphira lied and didn’t die for it. In fact, the scriptures show that they are being questioned by the most famous liar in the Bible, Peter. I’m simply pointing out that there are times in history when we move from the grace-filled days of freewill into a sovereign time when God takes over, and we must adjust to His lead. I propose that we are in a sovereign season now, and we must learn to follow!

WHOSE SIDE ARE YOU ON?

We are living in unprecedented times. For the first time in modern history, we live in a culture where people have morphed sin into an identity statement rather than recognizing it as a behavior. And, if this pandemic has exposed anything, it’s revealed a global political climate that has many of you asking God whose side He is on. I suggest you’re asking the wrong question just as Joshua did, and missing the point entirely. It’s not a matter if God is for you or against you, for your political policies or against them. What you must recognize is that we are currently in a time when God is showing up as the Captain! He is moving at a speed that is creating Kairos conditions . There is an urgency to step out of the way of what God is doing. So, the question isn’t whose side is God on, rather the question is whose side are you on?

After seasons of looking for His people to step up, God is stepping in and creating His own justice. Through providential moments, He, who fashioned and formed the earth with the purpose of it being inhabited, is going before us, and He will subdue the nations (Isaiah 45). I believe we are about to see American politics suddenly interrupted by providence; God will not be moved or derailed. I would suggest that you consider how to navigate this Kairos sovereign moment in the following ways:

Consider where your loyalties lie. We must be people that have loyalty to the Kingdom that transcends party lines. This Kairos moment will not be defined by a political party. If you have a political spirit, you will miss it.
Behave with nobility . You are a king among kings, and if you don’t understand what God is doing currently then consider carefully how you speak about this season. Weigh your words, and think before you speak. It is not your place to prophesy judgment against people, but it is your place to view people through God’s perspective.
Get out of the way. In sovereign moments of God, we need to put our heads down, listen, and learn to follow God’s lead even when we don’t understand.

God is prompting His people with one question: Do you believe in providence? He’s signaling to us all that we are entering into a time that will require a different attitude, and it will require us to discern His movement. You most likely won’t understand the greater good in the current moves He’s making, as providence happens from a perspective often unseen, but nevertheless, He is inviting you to join Him. He desires you to trust and follow.

My prayer is that you will ask God to adjust any attitude, action, or behavior that is resistant to God’s plans. I ask that the Holy Spirit will help you to discern the times, and learn to follow Him.

For more on Kairos moments, check out a prophetic word I gave in December 2019 here .

< Older Post

Newer Post >

THE BLOG

Discover more blog posts

Finding Purpose in Pain: The Hidden Gifts of Suffering

By Kris Vallotton • October 22, 2025

When life hurts, God is closer than you think. Learn how suffering shapes your soul and reveals His presence in your pain.

Kathy's Mother's Day Message

By Kathy Vallotton • May 10, 2025

As Mother’s Day approached, I knew there was no one better to speak into the heart of motherhood than my wife, Kathy. Her life has been a living picture of grace, sacrifice, and Spirit-led strength. I believe her words will bless you the way her life has blessed me. Kris - Today, I want to honor the incredible women who wear the title of “Mother” with grace, strength, and unwavering love. A mother is a guiding light. She illuminates our paths with wisdom and warmth. She is the gentle hand that nurtures us in our earliest days, the fierce protector who stands by us through life’s storms, and the unwavering supporter of our dreams. Many times, Mom, our sacrifices go unnoticed. We juggle countless responsibilities, often putting our own needs aside to ensure the happiness and well-being of our family. That’s just what Moms do! My joy has always come from serving others. What some people call exhausting, I call invigorating! Even when my kids were young, I can't tell you how many sleepless nights I've had, comforting one of my babies because, ‘only Mommy will do.’ Love wins every time! But love has stolen my heart over and over again. In the good times and in the bad, Jesus has always been by my side, my solid rock and my firm foundation. He has been there beside you too! That big “S” that you wear on your chest didn't happen by accident. The bible says that He will never leave me or forsake me. During all of my laughter and through my many tears, He has always guided me in every situation. So when you feel weak, remember He is right by your side. When you don't think that you can move another muscle, He is your biggest cheerleader. When you get into a spot where life feels like more than you can handle, take a look at what the Lord says about you! You are Tenacious. Your perseverance is remarkable. As a Mom, you consistently push through obstacles with unwavering commitment to your goals. You are Courageous. Mom’s often take bold steps, stand up to what they think is just, even when faced with opposition or adversity. You can do this! You are Radiant. The love of Jesus shines brightly to all those who you come in contact with, inspiring positivity and hope. You are Unstoppable. Mom, once you set your sights on a goal, you exhibit an unwavering drive to help your children pursue their dreams and desires. You are Fierce. With a spirit that is unyielding, as a Mom, you will protect your family at all costs. You are Inspiring. Moms believe in their kids. We believe that all things are possible with God and encourage our families to go where no child has ever gone before! Mom, you are the architects of our character, teaching us values of kindness, empathy, and resilience. With every hug, every word of encouragement, you instill in us the confidence to pursue our passions and overcome obstacles. Your laughter brings joy to our lives, while your tears remind us of the depth of your love. As a mom myself, I celebrate not just the role you play but the remarkable individuals you are. You are the heart of the family, the keeper of traditions, and the source of unconditional love. Each moment shared, each lesson taught, and every story told weaves an unbreakable bond that shapes who we are. To all mothers, whether near or far, biological or chosen, your impact is profound and everlasting. Today, we celebrate you, not just for the love you give, but for the incredible people you are. Happy Mother’s Day! Kathy Vallotton

Character and Gifting: Favor with God and Favor with Man

By Kris Vallotton • March 5, 2025

Have you ever felt called to a spiritual role but struggled to find your place in it? Perhaps you've experienced a divine moment where God revealed a prophetic gift in your life, yet you found yourself wondering why others don't seem to recognize or acknowledge it. This tension between divine calling and human recognition can be one of the most challenging aspects of walking in prophetic ministry. I've spoken with countless individuals who believe God has called them to be prophets, yet they feel frustrated when church leadership doesn't immediately recognize their office. They often share powerful testimonies of divine encounters or prophetic words that confirmed their calling. But here's the beautiful truth I've discovered: authentic spiritual authority requires both divine appointment and human recognition. Scripture shows us that even Jesus "increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men" (Luke 2:52). This powerful verse reveals an important principle – spiritual authority flourishes at the intersection of Heaven's approval and earthly recognition. The Bible offers us profound wisdom about this journey of walking out our prophetic calling. Let's explore three essential principles that can help you navigate this path with grace and wisdom. 1. Understand the Process Between Anointing and Appointment King David's story provides one of the most powerful examples of the gap between divine calling and public recognition. When Samuel anointed David as king, the Spirit of the Lord came upon him powerfully – yet David didn't actually become king for fourteen years! During that time, he served faithfully, developed his character, and waited for God's timing. The journey between your prophetic calling and your public commissioning is not an accident – it's divine design. This season of preparation builds the character, wisdom, and spiritual maturity needed to carry the weight of prophetic authority. Just as David was anointed three times – once by God through Samuel and twice by the people – your prophetic gift may require multiple confirmations. Remember that if you have favor with God but not yet with leadership, pushing for recognition prematurely can lead to painful experiences. As Proverbs 18:16 reminds us, " A man's gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men. " Allow your gift to create the space for your ministry rather than trying to force open doors that aren't ready to receive you. 2. Avoid Self-Promotion and Political Maneuvering It’s important to realize that even though your gift is what gets you into the room, your character is the thing that keeps you there. There's a stark warning in Scripture about gaining influence through manipulation rather than divine timing. Absalom, David's son, shows us the danger of winning people's hearts through flattery, false promises, and undermining leadership. He created a following by positioning himself as more accessible and understanding than the established authority. In today's social media age, the temptation toward self-promotion has never been stronger. We can easily build platforms that elevate our image above our character. But true prophetic authority doesn't come through marketing yourself as an expert – it comes through humble service, consistent character, and divine timing. James 4:6 reminds us that " God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. " When we push for recognition prematurely or through manipulation, we may gain a position but miss the protection that comes with proper promotion. Like Joseph, who shared his prophetic dreams prematurely with his brothers, our lack of wisdom can create a much more difficult path to our destiny than God intended. 3. Embrace the Preparation Process The weight of the prophetic office is both invisible and substantial. I've witnessed many genuinely called individuals crumble under the pressure of premature promotion. The apostle Paul wisely instructed that leaders " should first be tested and then let them serve " (1 Timothy 3:10), and warned against laying hands on anyone hastily (1 Timothy 5:22). True preparation for prophetic ministry involves more than just having accurate prophetic words. It requires developing spiritual maturity, biblical understanding, relational wisdom, and emotional health. If you sense a prophetic calling on your life, embrace the preparation process with patience and humility. Serve faithfully where you are. Allow trusted leaders to speak into your life and development. Study the Scriptures diligently. And remember that the process between the promise and the palace is not just necessary – it's a gift that prepares you to succeed when your time comes. My prayer for you is that you would find peace in God's timing for your prophetic journey. May you grow in both favor with God and with people, allowing the Lord to develop in you the character needed to carry His voice with integrity. Let me be clear- the path to your prophetic purpose isn't just about reaching a destination – it's about becoming the person who can faithfully steward the authority that comes with it.

NEWSLETTER