Called to Influence Your World

“Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.” John 17:18 (NLT)

As a young man, I heard some of my friends say things like, “Before I settle down and give my life to Jesus, I want to travel, make some money and have some fun.”

This got me wondering, “Why can’t you do all that while serving God?” Why would these people assume that the life of a believer can’t be fun, adventurous or successful?

The problem is that for years, religion has said there’s a big, bad world out there. We’re told that believers need to hunker down and separate themselves. But let me share some truth from the Bible that set me free.

When Scripture talks about being “in this world but not of it,” it’s not talking about living cut off from the world. It’s talking about an internal separation. On the inside, you live with God’s set of values, morals and beliefs—and these are different than the beliefs guiding an unbeliever. At the same time, you’re involved and engaged with the people around you. This is what it means to live a Spirit Contemporary life. You can be full of God’s power while relating to others in a contemporary way!

We’re not called to hide from the world, but to influence it. Jesus said in John 17:18 that He was sending His followers into the world! In fact, your neighbourhood, city and country need you to rise up, get involved and be a difference maker for Christ.

Regardless of your sphere of influence, you’re called to lead and excel. Step into your world and live in such a way that others can see how good your God is! This is the adventure of a lifetime.