God’s Spirit working in us is the key to spiritual influence.
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Pastor Kelvin is continuing our series of messages on how to have “A Godly Spiritual Legacy.” This week we focused on the Holy Spirit’s work in us and through us to influence those around us. We cannot make a big spiritual difference in our world unless we stay close to Jesus.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
Jesus in John 15:5
Pastor Kelvin reminded us that there are three things to remember. First, everyone who gives hospitality to the teachings and Spirit of Jesus in their mind and heart has the Holy Spirit in them. This knowledge gives us assurance and keeps us from being discouraged. Second, staying strong in the Spirit of God requires saying “no” to temptations and “yes” to God’s ways. We can only be a strong godly influence and leave a great spiritual legacy if we cooperate with the Holy Spirit’s transforming work in our lives. We need to “keep in step” with God’s Spirit. Pastor Kelvin gave the example of walking hand in hand with his grandson in the forest on the way to Carpenter Falls. His grandson knows the way because he learned it from his grandfather. In the same way, we learn from the Spirit’s instructions and walk with God through life. The result will be a godly legacy. Charles Stanley wrote,
To walk daily in the Holy Spirit is to actively invite the Holy Spirit to lead us, guide us, and power us, counsel us, and comfort us. We receive this daily work of the Holy Spirit in the same way that we received Jesus Christ as savior- by our faith. We ask the Holy Spirit to fill us anew each morning and then believe that God is at work in us and through us all day long.
(Charles Stanley, Leaving a Godly Legacy, Page 49)