A Spirit of Influence

 

 

 

 

Pastor Allan was speaking as I took notes and present his edited sermon:

 

We are not exempt from problems, and if we aren’t careful we focus on our trouble and fail to trust God.  Some will use alcohol to numb the thing that is bothering them, instead of giving it to God.

There is a spiritual shift happening.  God is getting ready to do amazing things and He is plowing our hearts. 

How many know that in your quiet time, God speaks to you?  (Many raised their hands.)  Sometimes after dreaming, I wake up reciting scripture. Some dreams are so real that when you wake it is still there.  In our self consciousness we are still in a position of worship even in our sleep.

Seasons are changing and there is a shift in our weather.  God is also doing a shift in the spiritual.  We can see things happening.  One thing is many churches are uniting for special events. 

How do we navigate through this change?  The early church practiced fellowship; they made disciples and shared the gospel.  Evangelism goes out to the world.  We must tell others about Jesus. 

It is good to prepare by attending classes, but we must all have a willing heart to share what God has done for you.  Be open all the time for opportunity as it arises.  Is the Word in your heart and not just in your cell phone.  Open your Bible because inside you will find answers for your need.

How are your neighbors?  Sometimes we have good neighbors, and other times not so good so we need to keep yourself in check.  Your neighbors are watching your life and they know you are a Christian.  They will seek you out when they need prayer.  Be ready.

The enemy does not want you to evangelize.  He will tell you it isn’t your job, that you can’t do it.  Actually people are hungry and they are seeking truth.

1 Corinthians 9:16  For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!

Paul was a brilliant educated Jewish man, but he became like as all men to gain some.

He became a partaker of weakness for the sake of the gospel.  He was willing to minister to the despised gentiles to win them to Christ.

Pastor confessed, that at one time he loved to gamble, but God gave him an opportunity to preach at an event for the Veteran’s that was held at the very place that destroyed him.

Pastor belongs to a group of Christian bikers who meet once a month and people ask them questions about the cross on their jacket.  Be led of the Holy Spirit to give your testimony when a situation arises.

When a big ministry comes to an area, like Billy Graham, there was much preparation and cooperation by many churches.  Many came to the front to receive Jesus and cards were filled out and shared with the cooperating churches for follow up. 

Don’t hold on to things that bog you down.  They may be things, or perhaps a habit that has you bound, let them go if they prevent your freedom in Christ. 

Understand that you have a spirit of influence, so allow God to use you.