Yes, there are some people who have influence because they are clever and perceptive and sensitive and visionary and physically attractive or imposing.
The reality is, however, that most people don’t possess this set of persuasion characteristics.
Even among Christians.
So if we’ve been called to influence the unsaved world around us yet we lack the charm and drive of a top salesperson, how are we to persuade others evangelistically to the extent that we should?
Hmmmm…… I love how God doesn’t hitch the power of the Gospel to the pizzaz of the believer.
He simply, in a very real way, asks us to let Him do the talking.
“Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’” (John 7:38)
You and I can go on and on with an unsaved person about the love of God and the peace of being in His presence and the strength found in His Spirit and etc. and etc…..
But another’s changed heart isn’t the sign of our personal power.
It’s the work of the Lord.
Remember how the Apostle Paul said that one plants and another waters but it is God who provides the increase?
That’s how it is with respect to John 7:38.
When rivers of Living Water — the loving words of Jesus — start flowing from our hearts at work rather than a drop now and then, that’s when our faith will be seen as real rather than as a box-checking facade.
Is this how you’re seen by others at home or school or at church? As a fountain of faith feeding a river of loving, inspiring words?
This is how my congregation needs to see me since I am her pastor.
And so I need to drink daily. I need to drink deeply.
This is why I read the One-Year Bible and this is why I write the Morning Devotion each weekday.
It’s all about the river.
It’s all about the increase.
It’s all about Jesus.
For His is the only hope for eternal life.
For others and for us.
As always, I love you
Martin
