Monday
Jun092008
Godly Influence
Monday, June 9, 2008
Sunday, June 8th marked our second Preview Service and it was so very evident that the warmth of the Spirit was with us. God's favor is showing up in so many ways and directions! It's exciting to see the hand of God move as He blesses us with answered prayer. We serve an AWESOME GOD. Thanks to all who have so faithfully carried out their commitment of prayer and fasting on Tuesdays. And, thank you to each and every one who signed up to serve and carried out their servant role at the service. I know for certain the Children's Church was having a great time outdoors as they ventured through and around the Nile River!
Pastor Dick has been sharing from the Book of Nehemiah and how, as a cup-bearer, Nehemiah had gained much favor and respect in the eyes of the king during his years of service. Although his role wasn't difficult, it was 
significant in terms of the wellbeing of the king. I believe Nehemiah had a godly influence on the king due to his character and integrity. When Nehemiah sensed his call to obey and return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city, he approached the king (after much prayer, time, and careful consideration), for a leave of absence from his duties. The king not only agreed but granted him a twelve year leave, as well as building materials and travel necessities.
significant in terms of the wellbeing of the king. I believe Nehemiah had a godly influence on the king due to his character and integrity. When Nehemiah sensed his call to obey and return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city, he approached the king (after much prayer, time, and careful consideration), for a leave of absence from his duties. The king not only agreed but granted him a twelve year leave, as well as building materials and travel necessities. That led me to think of Noah and his family. Living circumstances were different, but the impact of a life lived for the Lord was consistent. Noah and his family resided in the midst of a world where everyone blatantly disregarded God. I would say wickedness was the norm. Noah had a call from God to build an ark in preparation for a flood. Noah's sons had a huge decision to make when they were asked by their father to join him in spending one hundred years building an ark in obedience to a word from God. With wickedness and ungodly behaviors and attitudes the norm, no one would have condemned his three sons for following the ways of their society. However, because of a godly, faithful father, they chose to join him. What a witness Noah's life was in his home....character and integrity (just like Nehemiah) , spells GODLY INFLUENCE.
It all made me think of the influence our lives have on our families, co-workers, friends, neighbors....all those around us. Our choices can have a huge impact as the world tries to persuade people to follow its standards. Our lives should convince those around us of the wisdom in following God. Do we underestimate the positive effect that our obedience can and does have upon those around us day by day? As the body of Christ and the family of CenterPoint Church, let's pray we do walk what we talk. Let's be bold and obedient to the Great Commission and make an impact in the St. Croix Valley, just as Nehemiah and Noah did in their given situations through their obedience, character, and integrity.
In Him, Sandy
In Him, Sandy
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