Have you ever been in a conversation with someone and learned that you had unknowingly made a lasting impression on them by something you did or said in the past? I have, and as I have found myself reflecting back, too often I'm surprised and even embarrassed at the memory left to others.
One of the saints that had a great influence on my formative years as a new Christian in The Dalles was Jerry Underhill. His gentle and introspective spirit was so contrary to my natural worldly brashness, I found myself then, and still today, striving to model his walk among men.
One of the nuggets of rich wisdom I will always remember from him came as I was lamenting how inadequate and unskilled I saw myself as a Christian witness to those I hoped to influence for Jesus.
Though he might not have remembered if asked, my memory of his response to me was, again, quietly encouraging, and left one of those lasting impressions on my life.
He said, in essence, " Jack, don't you know you are always witnessing, because people will be left with an impression. The question is, " Are you a witness for the Lord's will or the world's?"
I'm reminded as I reflect back on those teachable moments, that if I truly want to be effective influencing others for Christ, I have to ask the Holy Spirit to be a part of the situation. He waits within each Believer, to be pressed into service. It is His job to change that heart and leave the lasting impact for Christ.
He is much better at changing hearts and minds than you and I. Do You get those feelings of confusion and inadequacy as you approach others and hope to leave His best and lasting influence . Ask the Spirit, . . . " to be a part of the encounter for God's glory ". You cannot go wrong praying that quick prayer .
As always, He waits patiently for us to get out of the way and let Him lead. He's so much better at it than I am.
"Blessings" on Y'all, as you remember to let the Holy Spirit lead.
- Jack
