You all!!! We did it. We have journeyed together. We have done the tough stuff. We have dug deep. Thank you for joining me on the Just RISE UP! study over the past month. Let’s finish strong with Chapter 5.

Influence.

That’s a big word.

Obedience and authenticity.

Those are big words too.

But before we get too intimidated by the enormity of these concepts, let us remember that HE is WORTHY. Right?

Watch the video below for my thoughts on rising up with influence.

 

Dig IN!

~After you’ve had a chance to read sections one and two of Just RISE UP! chapter 5 I would like to hear your definition of the word, influence. I wrote that influence means making impact and having effect. What are your definitions for the word?

I think as we’ve decided to make Jesus famous, the idea of influencing others to do the same is exciting? Is it for you? It is ok if you feel ill-equipped…I do too! Here is the remedy for that:

Now that you have welcomed the Anointed One, Jesus the Lord, into your lives, continue to journey with Him and allow Him to shape your lives. 7 Let your roots grow down deeply in Him, and let Him build you up on a firm foundation. Be strong in the faith, just as you were taught, and always spill over with thankfulness. (Colossians 2:6-7 THE VOICE)

~In this passage are so many great Scripture word pictures to hold on tight to as we consider our influence on those around us for the kingdom. What sticks out to you in this passage? (I personally love the “let your roots grow deep.”)

~What actions can you take in your personal, private relationship with Jesus to allow this Scripture to permeate into your more public life of faith…influence?

~On page 143 in Journal 1 I asked you to consider who is in your sphere of influence. What did you write down? Let’s be creative together and give each other ideas on what our spheres of influence look like. (I’m thinking about the regular cashiers I see at the grocery store every Friday…they are in my sphere, too!) How about you?

Journal IT!

In chapter 5, section 2 “Influence on the Narrow Road” we talk about making tough life decisions in order to walk in obedience to God. I talked about how I decided to stop watching a television show that was chock full of sex scenes and ugly language because it was filling up my mind with that ugliness. In your journal, prayerfully list out some “small temptations” and even the bigger temptations that deter you from that narrow road…

There are two paths before you; you may take only one path. One doorway is narrow. And one door is wide. Go through the narrow door. For the wide door leads to a wide path, and the wide path is broad; the wide, broad path is easy, and the wide, broad, easy path has many, many people on it; but the wide, broad, easy, crowded path leads to death. 14 Now then that narrow door leads to a narrow road that in turn leads to life. It is hard to find that road. Not many people manage it. (Matthew 7:13-14 THE VOICE)

~Journal through how you might see how walking in obedience to the Lord leads to more authentic faith and therefore more influence. I would LOVE to hear your answer to this in the comments!

Pray About IT!

Use the following prayer prompts to guide you in conversation with the Lord.

~Lord, help me keep my eyes open as I go about my day to recognize who is in my sphere of influence and to whom it is that You want me to reach out . . .

~ I pray that You will strengthen my faith as I dig my roots deep in You . . .

~Lord, it is hard choosing the narrow road, but I know I will find life and fulfillment on that road. I trust that You hear my cry for help as I take steps down Your narrow road . . .

Let’s Chat About IT!

I can’t wait to hear your thoughts. Please feel free to leave a comment with any thoughts on this chapter thus far. Let’s chat!

Share IT!

Want to encourage your friends on social media? Feel free to grab these graphics and use #JustRISEUP