THE INFLUENCER -1
In my reading of Romans chapter 8, specifically from verse 9, I extend an invitation to all to embrace the proper influence in their lives. The scripture states that believers are not governed by the flesh but are instead guided by the Spirit, provided that the Spirit of God resides within them. It further emphasizes that if one lacks the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Him. The passage highlights a profound truth: while the body is rendered lifeless due to sin, the spirit is invigorated through righteousness. Moreover, it assures us that if the Spirit that resurrected Jesus dwells within us, then that same Spirit will also revitalize our mortal bodies. This divine influence is essential for our spirit, soul, and body, as it is through the Spirit that God seeks to empower us.
The underlying motivation for seeking influence often stems from a desire for control. Many individuals pursue wealth without fully understanding that money itself is merely a tool; it is the power and autonomy that wealth provides that truly matters. The aspiration to attain riches frequently arises from a longing to dictate one’s circumstances, such as food choices, travel destinations, and educational opportunities for one’s children. When financial resources are limited, individuals often find themselves at the mercy of their situation, compelled to consume whatever is available, even fasting involuntarily. This desire for control drives many to extraordinary lengths in their quest for financial stability, as they yearn for the freedom to make choices that align with their personal desires and values.
The desire for power often stems from an inherent need for control and influence.
Individuals, such as state governors, find themselves in positions where they can dictate the dynamics within their jurisdiction, which can be immensely gratifying. This sense of authority can lead to aspirations for even greater power, such as the presidency, as individuals seek to expand their control beyond their immediate environment. The underlying truth is that the pursuit of power is fundamentally about control; it is a driving force that compels individuals to seek dominance in various aspects of life. This phenomenon can also be observed in the realm of personal desires, such as lust, where individuals feel empowered by their ability to act on their sexual appetites. The autonomy to choose whom to engage with mirrors the broader human desire for control over one’s circumstances and relationships.
Moreover, the complexities of power dynamics reveal that true management of influence requires self-discipline and the ability to submit to a higher authority. In many cultures, including African traditions, the expression of power can be stark, as seen in historical practices where kings exercised their authority over subjects without question. This illustrates a critical point: without a guiding influence, individuals may find themselves subject to other forces that can lead to chaos or moral decay. The notion that nature abhors a vacuum suggests that if one does not allow a divine presence to govern their life, other influences will inevitably fill that void. The biblical assertion that the spirit of God can invigorate and guide those who embrace it underscores the importance of aligning oneself with a higher moral authority to navigate the complexities of power and influence effectively.
One interpretation suggests that to “make alive” or “invigorate” signifies the arrival of the Spirit of God within me, empowering my natural existence with divine influence. It is inconceivable for me to embody the Spirit of God while leading a life of mediocrity; as a child of the Most High, I should not dwell in the depths of lowliness. This assertion reflects the divine intention for my life, which is to be open to the transformative influence of the highest being present on Earth today—the Spirit of God. Often referred to as the third person of the Trinity, He serves as the governor of the Kingdom of God and embodies the greatest power available to humanity. His desire is not merely to reside within me but to take command of my life, guiding me toward the fulfillment of my divine destiny. My pursuit of autonomy must not distance me from God’s reach, as true fulfillment can only be achieved through His guidance.
The scripture in Ephesians 5:18 advises against excessive indulgence in wine, instead urging believers to be filled with the Spirit. This suggests that the influence of the Spirit of God in my life can be compared to the confidence and courage I derive from other sources when facing life’s challenges. The Spirit seeks to take control, enabling me to confront and overcome the difficulties I encounter, not through my own strength, but through divine assistance. What I am presenting is the concept of a supernatural lifestyle; while I exist in the natural realm, allowing the Spirit of God to permeate my life empowers me to transcend ordinary living. It is essential to recognize that when I attempt to seize control of my life independently, I inadvertently allow the adversary to take over, as true control is beyond human capability.
The essence of the figure commonly referred to as the devil is rooted in rebellion. This concept is explored within biblical texts, which illustrate the devil’s desire for control. It is crucial to recognize that anyone who seeks to assert control in their own life may inadvertently align themselves with this rebellious spirit, thus becoming subject to its influence. It is imperative to grasp that the ultimate goal of divine intervention in our lives is to establish God’s sovereignty over every aspect of our existence. Only through this complete submission can we ensure a life imbued with meaning and purpose, safeguarding ourselves from the peril of falling from grace.
Many individuals may find that certain past experiences or negative influences continue to exert a stronger hold on their lives than the teachings of God. For some, the impact of hurtful words spoken years ago may overshadow the promises found in scripture, leading to a life dictated by anger and resentment rather than guided by the Holy Spirit. This dynamic illustrates the principle that a void in spiritual influence will inevitably be filled by something else, whether it be past trauma or harmful relationships. It is essential to acknowledge that unresolved childhood experiences can shape our decisions and interactions, often dictating who we allow into our lives. It is my hope that through divine guidance, we can break free from these detrimental influences and embrace a life led by God’s love and purpose.
In the presence of those who may have succumbed to the allure of a life steeped in substance abuse and alcohol, I wish to extend an invitation to a more fulfilling existence. If you find that your joy and sense of vitality are derived solely from these harmful habits, I urge you to consider the transformative power of opening your heart to God. It is through this act of surrender that your true self can be revived, allowing for a profound renewal of spirit. I speak to anyone who feels trapped by their dependencies, who believes that without these substances, life lacks meaning or excitement. This morning, I am filled with hope that as you invite the spirit of God into your life, you will recognize the deceptive nature of these influences and experience a divine intervention that leads to a new beginning.
The narrative of Isaiah 14:12 serves as a poignant reminder of the fall of Lucifer, once a revered archangel tasked with leading worship in Heaven. Among the three archangels—Gabriel, Michael, and Lucifer—he was distinguished by his immense power and responsibility. His role was to guide others in worship, which is fundamentally an act of submission and reverence to a higher authority. However, a tragic transformation occurred, leading to his descent from grace. The essence of worship lies in the act of seeking and submitting to the divine, a principle that Lucifer once embodied. Yet, through a series of choices, he became the embodiment of opposition to God, illustrating the profound consequences of straying from one’s intended purpose.
In the twelfth verse, we encounter a profound declaration regarding the fall of Lucifer, often referred to as the “morning star.” The text poignantly illustrates his descent from the heights of heaven to the depths of the earth, emphasizing his weakened state as he is cast down for his ambition to elevate himself above the divine order. Lucifer’s aspirations to ascend to heaven, to exalt his throne above the stars, and to position himself on the mount of the congregation reflect a profound desire for supremacy. This narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of pride and rebellion, culminating in his ultimate downfall to Sheol, a representation of the grave or the lowest depths of existence. The rebellion of Lucifer, which occurred prior to the creation of humanity, underscores a critical principle: the pursuit of control over genuine freedom can lead to a destructive path.
The distinction between control and true freedom is essential to understanding the nature of rebellion against divine authority. When one prioritizes control, as exemplified by Lucifer’s desire to usurp God’s position, it often results in a negative influence that distorts one’s relationship with the divine. To illustrate this concept, consider a table laden with a variety of dishes, such as pounded yam, jollof rice, and other culinary delights. The presence of this feast signifies freedom, as it represents the abundance and choices available. In contrast, an obsession with control can lead to a constricted mindset, where the individual becomes fixated on dominance rather than embracing the richness of life. This metaphor serves to highlight that true freedom lies not in the exertion of control but in the appreciation of the diverse experiences and opportunities that life presents.
The concept of true freedom can often be misunderstood, particularly when one observes individuals indulging in excess, such as at a buffet. It is not uncommon to witness someone approach the food with a sense of abandon, piling their plates high without regard for moderation. This behavior can evoke curiosity about their origins and motivations, as onlookers may wonder about the impulse driving such a display. However, the essence of freedom lies not in the ability to consume recklessly but in the capacity to make deliberate choices. A person who embodies true freedom recognizes that they have the autonomy to select only what they truly desire, such as a modest serving of pasta and a bottle of water, and to enjoy it in a manner that reflects self-control and humility.
This notion of freedom extends beyond mere dietary choices; it permeates various aspects of life, including relationships and personal conduct.
Individuals in positions of power, such as executives or leaders, often face temptations that could lead to indulgent behaviors. Yet, true freedom is characterized by the ability to exercise restraint and make choices that align with one’s values. For instance, one may have the means to pursue numerous romantic encounters but chooses to commit to a single partner, demonstrating mastery over desires. This kind of freedom, rooted in the guidance of the Holy Spirit, allows individuals to transcend the need for control and embrace a life of purpose. As articulated in biblical teachings, the paradox of losing one’s life to find it underscores the transformative power of surrendering to divine influence, ultimately leading to a more profound sense of liberation.
I am not merely governed by the desire to hold authority, as many individuals today endure various hardships stemming from their ambition to be in control. The fall of Lucifer serves as a poignant reminder of this truth; his desire for dominion led to his transformation into the devil. My own journey of faith began when I surrendered my life to Christ during my secondary school years while residing in a boarding house. The environment I was in was somewhat permissive, and my father’s financial means led me to believe that his possessions were inherently mine. This misguided mentality allowed me to take money without understanding the moral implications of my actions, as I did not perceive them as wrong.
Upon entering the boarding house, I encountered peers who possessed an array of luxuries, which only intensified my craving for financial resources. During midterm breaks, when my family inquired about my needs, I often reassured them that I was fine, as I had already accessed my father’s funds without their knowledge. This behavior persisted until a pivotal moment in my life when someone introduced me to Christ and invited me to a fellowship. As I began to embrace my faith, discussions surrounding morality and ownership arose, challenging my previous beliefs. I found myself grappling with the notion that my father’s wealth was not automatically mine, and while I could refrain from lying, the idea of taking what belonged to him without consent remained a struggle for me, as I clung to the belief that our shared name justified my actions.
My interpretation of the situation was that it had deteriorated to such an extent that if I continued to engage in that behavior for an extended period, I would feel compelled to abandon my spiritual community, as I was striving for control over my life. My desires had grown insatiable, making it increasingly challenging for anyone to convince me to refrain from spending, to avoid indulgences, or to resist the temptation of seeking pleasure through food and drink. I recall a particular establishment where young men like myself would gather, often spending more money than adults, which further illustrates the extent of my struggle. It was hard for me to accept the possibility of losing control over this aspect of my existence. I hope that others can relate to this experience, as many may find themselves grappling with similar challenges. God is inviting us to relinquish control in these areas, assuring us that by submitting to His guidance, He can fulfill our needs appropriately—whether they pertain to intimacy or financial stability—because His wisdom far surpasses our limited understanding of life’s complexities.