We are constantly under the influence of various forces, whether we realize it or not. Recognizing these influences, especially the divine and the deceptive, is crucial for spiritual growth and discernment. Understanding who influences us helps us align our lives with God's will. [50:35]
"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." (Ephesians 6:12, ESV)
Reflection: What are the most significant influences in your life today, and how can you ensure they align with God's will?
Parents are significant influencers in their children's lives. Authoritative, loving guidance is essential for raising children who can navigate life's challenges. This involves being willing to make unpopular decisions for their long-term benefit. [01:06:30]
"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6, ESV)
Reflection: How can you provide loving and authoritative guidance to the young people in your life today, even if it means making unpopular decisions?
In today's world, technology and social media have introduced new influencers that can be both beneficial and dangerous. Discernment is necessary to navigate these influences and protect our spiritual and mental well-being. [01:15:23]
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Romans 12:2, ESV)
Reflection: What steps can you take today to ensure that your use of technology and social media aligns with your spiritual values?
By focusing on God's character and aligning our lives with His will, we can experience transformation. This process involves contemplating the Lord's glory and allowing His Spirit to work within us, leading to a life of peace and purpose. [01:33:46]
"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)
Reflection: How can you intentionally focus on God's character today to allow His Spirit to transform you?
We are living in a time of prophetic transition, where we are being set up for the biggest scam in human history. Recognizing and resisting negative influences is crucial to overcoming this deception and living a life aligned with God's truth. [01:41:18]
"See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ." (Colossians 2:8, ESV)
Reflection: What deceptive influences might be trying to take you captive today, and how can you resist them by grounding yourself in God's truth?
In today's message, we explored the profound concept of influence and how it shapes our lives. We began with a vivid analogy of being pulled over for a DUI, despite not having consumed alcohol, to illustrate how we are constantly under the influence of various forces, whether we realize it or not. This series, "Under the Influence," aims to delve into the sources and impacts of these influences, both divine and otherwise.
We are all influenced by something or someone, and it's crucial to recognize who or what these influencers are. The two most significant influencers in the universe are God and Satan, though they are not equal in power. God, the sovereign creator, and Satan, a rebellious angel, both exert influence over our lives. Additionally, angelic beings, assigned to nations, and human influencers like parents, leaders, and peers, play significant roles in shaping our character and decisions.
The story of Job was used to illustrate the unseen spiritual influences at play in our lives. Job, unaware of the heavenly council's discussions, remained faithful despite severe trials, showing us the importance of steadfastness under divine influence. We also discussed the role of parents as influencers, emphasizing the need for authoritative, loving guidance in raising children.
In our modern world, we face unprecedented influences from technology, social media, and the internet. These new influencers can be both beneficial and dangerous, requiring discernment and wisdom to navigate. We are living in an anomalous time, where strangers can have more influence over us than those who love us. This series will address how to maximize God's influence in our lives and minimize negative influences.
Ultimately, we are called to be influenced by God and to extend His influence to others. By aligning our lives with His will, we can experience a life of peace, joy, and purpose. As we continue this series, we will explore how to discern divine influence, maximize it, and extend it to others, preparing us to overcome the ultimate scam of human history.
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