Mattie Prophet is the perfect example of what it means to be "Called of God". The tragic loss of her brother Sammy serves as a catalyst to God's plan for her life. The readers observe as Mattie struggles and fights against the uncomfortable changes that appear to come with the territory for one who is called. When Mattie discovers her prophetic gifts, she wants to use it to destroy her enemies and hurt those who have hurt her and her family. But life from Mattie's point of view is quickly changed as God reveals the hidden places of the human heart and man's darkest secrets. Only through the gift of prophecy can Mattie now see her enemies as God sees them, through the eyes of Love. Mattie illustrates that when predestination shows up, it just happens. When God chooses us, it is without warning. He doesn't ask Mattie to RSVP His plan nor does He counsel with her concerning His decision. God does not insert a disclaimer or a warning label to announce the amount of pain that the post-purpose process will inflict upon her life. Mattie can not understand why she was chosen and declares, "I didn't ask God for nothing!" Her grandmother earnestly attempts to explain that prophecy is indeed a gift from God, but Mattie only sees it as being an unwelcome interruption into her life. In time however, Mattie finds herself settling into the harness of the transformation from small town country girl to a Prophetess of the Living God, but not without the battle scars and bruises that come with kicking against the Will of God.