The Holy Spirit & Influence

When I started preaching, many years ago, I took the credit for any positive outcome from my messages.

I am ashamed to say that I thought that it was my eloquence which changed lives. With such an appalling attitude, it is amazing that God used me at all.

Now, of course, I realize that, without His anointing, I am incapable of bringing about change in the human heart.

I was powerless then, and I am powerless now. It is the Spirit of God who transforms us.

As Paul the apostle wrote, “…My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power…” (1 Corinthians 2:4).

In our desire to encourage people to influence the world, we need to be cautious that we don’t raise up a generation that relies on natural ability.

We need to remember that, in Philippi, it was God who softened Lydia’s heart, not Paul. As the Bible says, “…The Lord opened her heart to respond to the message…” (Acts 16:14).

Are we too quick to take the credit for fruit?

Are we relying on our experience or skill?

Are we attempting to influence people, without the required anointing?

Robert