I love taking time to think through who has influenced me over the past year. While things and circumstances influence us many times I’m finding that it is usually people God puts in my path that have the most influence outside of His word and His Spirit. Here’s just a few of the people (outside of my family) I’m thankful for that have had an influence on me this past year.
My friend who got saved in January 2014 – she has helped me grow by asking a million questions about faith, God and her Bible. Oh my word it was the most refreshing year of discipleship I’ve ever had in my life. Her faith has inspired me and grown my own faith. I love how that happens – it does not matter how long the Spirit of God has been working in your life it just matters that He is working in your life. Because His power at work has influence on other people. I don’t care if it’s been one day of walking with Him. I’m not saying go grab a pulpit and start slinging sweat or anything but I am saying never ever underestimate the power of the Spirit of God working inside you and how it impacts others.
Our Associate Pastor’s Wife – she is an older-than-me woman in my life who has prayed for me, encouraged me and held me accountable in certain areas of my life. She has extended such grace to me and has come along side me to serve and encourage others as well. She and her husband have been one of the greatest gifts to me and Randy in 2014. We thank God for their influence on us and others.
Beth Moore – she and I …..we be besties. Just Kidding. She has no clue who I am but she makes me feel like we’ve had coffee every morning for the last year. I’ve really been influenced this year by her study in I and II Thessalonians. I learned some amazing things through her teaching of Thess. And as I look back on things that influenced me in 2014 I really have to say she did even though she’s never laid eyes on me. I know she has prayed for me and all the other recipients of her studies. I feel that strong connection that only prayer and the Spirit can bring. So thanks Beth! I’ll be texting you later today to see when we can grab that next cup of coffee. Ha!
Have you taken the time to look back on who God has used in your life this past year? I’d encourage you to do so. And then let them know. A step beyond that would be to sit down and think of the people you have influenced the past year. Some you won’t even realize you’ve influenced but hopefully there will be some people you have intentionally tried to influence. If not, consider making 2015 a year in which you intentionally influence somebody for the Kingdom. A neighbor? A coworker? Start with prayer and just see how God will bring people into your path for His glory.
Make 2015 a year of intentionality and influence!
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