Change and influence
I have trouble knowing what is in my control and what isn’t. Sure, in a sense, nothing is under my control. Plans for the future, even what we’ll do tomorrow, are but penciled-in dates, and can be erased, changed or forgotten in a literal lack-of heartbeat.
Because of the above, when faced with a challenge, I struggle with reasonable expectations. How great is my influence in this particular situation? How much does the effectiveness of “the thing” depend on me?
My dreams during early ministry were so large that they were, in fact, illusions. I can remember crying on my “old” friend Clifford’s shoulder while he counseled: You only spend 3 hours a week max with these kids. You are but one influence among hundreds. Get some perspective.
Perspective: Seeing people and situations from God’s point of view; Preaching big things because you believe the God of the message, however he works, transforms people through it.
These days, I tend to see my sphere of influence as quite small, sometimes microscopic. Looking within doesn’t offer perspective. But what does God see?
I want to hold on to dreams that come from above. For people change. Just look at what God’s done in you.
March 12th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
I remember actually being surprised when somebody pointed out to me that God had a hand in convicting people’s hearts. Imagine that!
March 12th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
ALWAYS hold on to the dreams from above. I believe God gives us those dreams, and those dreams keep us directed. They don’t put you in control, no, but your basic dream is to be His conduit, right? And you are!
March 12th, 2008 at 3:53 pm
right there with you brother
March 12th, 2008 at 6:23 pm
Your post hits me where I live and minister.
March 13th, 2008 at 5:03 am
Great thoughts! Deep thoughts. Never underestimate your impact on others … including me.
March 13th, 2008 at 9:32 am
Thanks for the thoughts, Brady!
I remember being asked after a ‘Campaign for Christ’ how many people in Lausanne I had ‘brought to the Lord’. I was 16 at the time. That question felt highly uncomfortable to me. It was much later when I learned that I had nothing to do with ‘bringing people to the Lord’. Jesus reads the hearts and does the calling.
Because Jesus knows the dreams of others much more intimately and correctly than I, He does the leading and is in full control. I am just on the sidelines, hopefully cheering others on towards the dream God designed for them. Other’s perspectives are to be respected and my own personal persuasions can so cloud the way.