Have you ever stopped to consider all the things that influence your life? We define influence as an effect, impact, control, sway, hold, power, authority, domination, supremacy, and leadership. We are all influenced by something and usually many things. That’s the reason we are so complicated.
Influence is one of the most significant forces on the planet. The influences over your life will shape who you are and what you become. Therefore, a person must take heed to the influences that they allow in their life. The reason why God and the existence of God is such a hot topic today is because of the impact God and religion have on a person’s life. If you believe in God as the Creator and master of all things, then this Creator God will influence your life. Some want to dismiss God and desire to be affected by something or someone else.
Many Christians desire to bring a positive influence of the Kingdom of God into a world that has rejected said Kingdom. In my message “Living Under the Influence,” I pose this question:
“Are you a source of kingdom influence or a slave to worldly influence?” Kingdom influence is bringing positive change to others through the power of the gospel.
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I want to share with you 3 Keys to Kingdom Influence.
Your walk talks louder than your talk.
When you speak about the Kingdom of God, the words you say must match the things you do. You are the living proof that the Kingdom exists and changes lives. Your life must have evolved first. If the gospel has had no power to change your life, why would anyone think it can change theirs. Practice what you preach. Honestly, this is why most Christians do not influence because they have no living proof.
Yield to the leading of the Holy Spirit in your life.
Kingdom influence is not something you conjure up. It is the Holy Spirit using you to affect others supernaturally. Yes, you do have that ability because of the Holy Spirit that indwells you. Kingdom influence is different than the worldly power of leadership. God is using many different avenues to bring about his kingdom purpose, all at that the same time. You are just one of the agents He is using to produce Kingdom change. There is no way to know the full effect of your efforts. Just follow the leading of the Spirit.
Love people with the unconditional love of Christ.
The Kingdom influence that Jesus brought into the world was full of grace, mercy, and long-suffering. Christ showed his love for us by his ultimate sacrifice to save us. We must be willing to do the same if we want to join Him in this Kingdom work. You express love when you better some else, getting nothing in return. Many people give with self-gratifying motives. They get a reward for their acts of service. It is uncommon for a person to give without getting. Your sacrifice of love will influence them for the Kingdom.
Questions to consider:
- Am I a living example to the Kingdom I am trying to represent?
- Am I watching and listening for the prompting of the Holy Spirit as He influences the world with the gospel?
- Do I love people with the unconditional love of Christ by sacrificing for others?
If you have been blessed in some way or have a question for Pastor Bill, feel free to leave a comment Below.
Bill Sizemore 