THE INFLUENCER -4
In the narrative found in John chapter 5, the account begins with a description of a man who was unable to walk, having been positioned for an extended period at the pool of Bethesda. This pool, located near the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem, was known for its five porches and was frequented by a multitude of individuals suffering from various ailments, including blindness, lameness, and paralysis. The belief was that an angel would descend at certain intervals to stir the waters, and the first person to enter the pool after this stirring would be healed of their affliction. The man in question had been in this state for thirty-eight years, and when Jesus approached him, He posed a pivotal question: “Do you want to be made well?” This encounter was not only transformative for the man but also served as a profound lesson on faith and healing.
Following his miraculous healing, the man faced scrutiny from the Jewish authorities, who noted that he was carrying his bed on the Sabbath, which they deemed unlawful. In his defense, he explained that the one who had healed him instructed him to take up his bed and walk. This incident highlights the tension between divine intervention and religious law, illustrating that the power of healing can sometimes challenge established norms. The narrative emphasizes that everyone faces challenges in life, and the multitude at the pool symbolizes the diverse struggles individuals endure. It is essential to recognize that certain limitations may persist until one actively seeks the guidance and influence of the Holy Spirit, which can lead to profound change and liberation from long-standing afflictions.
It is imperative that we do not remain stagnant at the pool, adhering strictly to the established rules while passively awaiting the intervention of the angel.
Instead, we must recognize that we have another Comforter, endowed with the divine mandate to facilitate our lives and ensure that the elements of this world align in our favor. I stand before you today to provoke a sense of urgency; it is time to transcend boundaries, to shatter limitations, and to embrace the role of the influencer in our own lives. Acknowledging that there may be certain aspirations that elude our grasp, regardless of our skills or efforts, is crucial. The scripture reminds us that the race is not always won by the swift, nor the battle by the strong; rather, it is time and chance that play pivotal roles in our journeys. Furthermore, I assert that engaging with the influence of the Holy Spirit is essential, as some opportunities will not materialize solely through our capabilities.
The concept of divine empowerment is underscored in biblical teachings, particularly regarding prosperity, which states that it is the Lord our God who grants us the power to acquire wealth. This notion reinforces the understanding that certain challenges may surpass our individual abilities, prompting individuals to seek assistance and guidance from various sources. The story of the man who remained at the pool for thirty-eight years illustrates the constraints imposed by societal rules and human standards, which often dictate what is deemed possible. Even after experiencing a transformative encounter, he was confronted with the rigid expectations of others, who reminded him of the Sabbath restrictions. In that moment, he must have realized that while he may have been physically incapacitated, his intellect remained intact. Faced with the choice between adhering to tradition and following the directive to rise and walk, he chose to embrace the transformative power of faith over the limitations imposed by human regulations.
I have been engaged in this journey for 38 years, and I give glory to Jesus for the revelation that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit serves to empower believers to transcend the ordinary flow of life. This phenomenon is referred to as the supernatural, which necessitates the suspension of natural laws in order for individuals to fully realize and fulfill their divine purpose in God. Contrary to popular belief, the most significant obstacle that believers face in their pursuit of the supernatural is not the devil; rather, it is the state of carnality. This term refers to the tendency to rely on the physical senses, which can confine one’s existence to a mere materialistic perspective. The greatest hindrance to experiencing the supernatural lies in our inability to detach from these five senses, as they often dictate our understanding and limit our potential.
In the biblical context, James 5:17 illustrates this point through the example of Elijah, who was described as a man with passions similar to ours. A particular translation emphasizes that Elijah, despite his human nature, earnestly prayed, demonstrating that the influence of the Holy Spirit can empower individuals to achieve remarkable feats, regardless of their emotional or physical limitations. This indicates that when one is attuned to the Spirit of God, they can rise above their natural inclinations and be instruments of divine action. It is essential to recognize that while certain truths may not align with our sensory perceptions, they can resonate deeply within the spirit, guiding us toward a higher understanding and experience of God’s power.
This morning, I find myself reflecting on the nature of truth and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. To be influenced by the Holy Ghost is to embrace a profound change, allowing oneself to rise above human weaknesses and fears. Courage, in this context, is not the absence of fear but rather the ability to act in spite of it. It is the acknowledgment that fear exists, yet one chooses to move forward, glorifying Jesus in the process. Consider the man who carried his bed with newfound confidence; when questioned about the Sabbath, he likely thought to himself that after 38 years of suffering, the rules of men could not confine him any longer. This illustrates how society often attempts to impose limitations based on natural laws and preconceived notions of qualification, but true liberation comes from a higher influence.
Moreover, the discussion of influence is not limited to a select few; it encompasses all who are willing to recognize the power of divine guidance. Take, for instance, Peter, who, despite his earlier denials of Christ, ultimately became a pillar of faith. In a moment of fear, he could have easily dismissed the accusations of a young girl, opting instead to protect himself rather than acknowledge his association with Jesus. This scenario highlights a common human tendency to prioritize self-preservation over truth, yet it also serves as a reminder that even those who falter can be transformed and empowered to achieve greatness. The journey of faith is not isolated; it is a collective experience that invites all to embrace the influence of the Holy Spirit and to act boldly in the face of adversity.
It is a well-established fact that I am among His disciples. Consider the example of Peter, who vehemently denied any association with Jesus, even resorting to swearing to emphasize his point. This same Peter, who once trembled at the mere inquiry of a young girl, later transformed into a bold proclaimer of the Gospel. As recorded in Acts Chapter 2, when the day of Pentecost arrived, the disciples were gathered together in unity. It was at this moment that the Holy Spirit descended upon them, empowering Peter to stand before the entire city with remarkable courage and conviction. This transformation serves as a powerful reminder of the profound influence of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
The Bible illustrates that Elijah was a man with passions similar to ours, which underscores the potential for each of us to experience divine empowerment. There may be individuals among us today who are grappling with challenges that seem insurmountable. It is essential to seek the influence of the Holy Spirit to help navigate these obstacles. Elijah, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, fervently prayed and achieved remarkable results, as noted in the book of James. His experiences affirm that if he, a man of similar emotions and weaknesses, could walk closely with God and witness extraordinary outcomes, then so can we. It is crucial to recognize that certain experiences, achievements, and expressions remain beyond our reach until we fully embrace the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Human limitations can confine us, but through divine influence, we can transcend our current state.
The journey of faith is inherently limited when one relies solely on human strength and understanding.
Without the transformative influence of the Holy Spirit, individuals may find themselves constrained by the limitations of time, space, and personal capacity. However, when one submits to divine guidance, they are empowered to embrace beliefs and possibilities that transcend ordinary human perception. Reflecting on my own experience, I recall my early days of salvation and ministry during my university years, a time when the institution was rife with cult activities. I vividly remember addressing an audience, fully aware that some individuals present were affiliated with these groups. In a moment of divine inspiration, I boldly proclaimed that there are those among us whom no weapon can harm, a declaration that stemmed from a profound spiritual intoxication rather than any earthly substance.
Following this declaration, a member of the cult approached me, expressing astonishment at my fearless proclamation, particularly given my youth. I seized the opportunity to guide him toward a life-changing decision, leading him to kneel and pray for salvation. On another occasion, while studying late at night, chaos erupted as students attempted to escape through windows, yet I remained undeterred, still enveloped in the same divine presence that had empowered me on the altar. This experience underscores the importance of remaining consistently in the presence of the Holy Spirit. Just as a person who drinks excessively becomes permanently affected, so too must one strive to maintain a continuous connection with the divine. A sporadic relationship with faith—oscillating between belief and doubt—will ultimately leave one vulnerable to spiritual attacks, as the adversary seeks to exploit any inconsistency in one’s commitment.
It is essential to grasp the significance of the biblical figures, particularly those like David, who exemplified profound passion and resilience. David, often described as a man after God’s own heart, faced numerous challenges, including his struggles with alcohol. He famously declared that a single day in the presence of the Lord is more valuable than a thousand elsewhere, highlighting the importance of divine connection. His encounters with formidable adversaries, such as lions and bears, were not merely physical confrontations but also symbolic of the spiritual battles we face. David’s confidence in confronting these threats stemmed from a deep reliance on divine influence, which transcends natural instincts. This principle applies to contemporary challenges as well; when faced with difficulties, it is crucial to recognize that some issues may have a spiritual dimension. The call to remain steadfast and confront these challenges is a reminder that the empowerment of the Holy Spirit is vital in overcoming obstacles rather than fleeing from them.
Furthermore, the ability to express gratitude amidst adversity is another hallmark of divine influence. The account of Paul and Silas in prison serves as a powerful illustration of this principle. Despite their dire circumstances, they chose to pray and sing praises to God at midnight, resulting in miraculous liberation. This act of worship, fueled by the Holy Spirit, demonstrates that true rejoicing can occur even in the face of affliction. As believers, we are called to worship in spirit rather than relying solely on our fleshly responses. When feelings of despair arise, it is imperative to reflect on the presence of the Holy Spirit within us. One cannot be filled with the Holy Spirit and simultaneously succumb to overwhelming emotions. Therefore, cultivating a spirit of gratitude and praise, even during challenging times, is a testament to the transformative power of divine influence in our lives.
The author of Psalm 23, David, expresses a profound relationship with the Lord, referring to Him as his Shepherd, which signifies guidance and provision. He articulates a sense of contentment, stating, “I shall not want,” and emphasizes the tranquility that comes from divine leadership, as he is led beside still waters. David acknowledges the restoration of his soul, even in the most daunting circumstances, such as walking through the valley of the shadow of death. His unwavering faith allows him to confront fear with confidence, as he believes that the Lord’s consistent restoration empowers him to remain unshaken. This divine influence fosters a spirit of joy, even amidst trials, highlighting the transformative power of faith in one’s life.
Furthermore, a significant aspect of this divine influence is the capacity to envision new possibilities and aspirations. In Joel Chapter 2, it is proclaimed that in the latter days, there will be a remarkable outpouring of the Spirit, enabling the youth to prophesy and the young men to see visions. This promise underscores the abundant supply of the Holy Spirit available to believers today. While we all exist under the same sky, our perspectives and horizons differ greatly; those who are spiritually influenced perceive a broader scope of potential and creativity. The Holy Spirit’s presence expands one’s vision, allowing for the emergence of ideas and insights that transcend ordinary understanding, thus enriching the believer’s experience and outlook on life.