Date: 05-Feb-2024
Name: Flo
Topic: ROOTS OR BRANCHES
Content:
Many of us at different times have transitioned from one industry to another. Some of these transitions have been from local to global, where our influence totally changes.
There are two types of influences that are involved here: Roots and Branches!
1. *Roots*
Some influence is like roots, they are a reflection of your depth of influence wherever you are planted.
*Psalm 1:3*
He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.
In fulfilling God's purpose, we need to understand how to exert influence when we've been planted in certain places to lead - a local church, a local community, a city, a family, a local business etc.
Your influence in this situation grows because of the depth of your roots in one place.
2. *Branches*
On the other hand, some influence is like branches. They are a reflection of the width/reach of influence.
*Acts 1:8*
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
This type of influence stretches across a wider environment, reaching multiple places and spaces. We use this when God leads us to serve in organizations/communities/businesses that aren’t confined to a single location
*Joseph and Daniel both showed great depth of influence in the Bible*:
Joseph's influence was deeply rooted in his faith and ability to interpret dreams, which eventually led to the preservation of the Israelites.
Daniel's influence is seen in his unwavering faith and integrity, which earned him respect from foreign kings and allowed him to hold high positions. He had local influence but gained international respect!
*Paul showed a great width of influence*:
Paul through his letters adapted his message to different cultures and contexts, he was able to connect with a wide range of people: Gentiles and Jews
Whether your influence is roots or branches, deep or wide, the important thing is to steward it wisely!
Prayer Points:
*Prayer Points*
1. Father, grant me the wisdom to understand Your purpose for me in every area I can influence.
2. Father, empower me with the Holy Spirit and teach me to be Your witness in every sphere You call me to—be it in my professional life, ministry, marketplace, home or social engagements.
3. Father, through every change, give me discernment to understand when to establish deep roots, offering stability and support, and when to extend my branches, reaching out to embrace new opportunities.
4. Pray that God will teach you to balance the depth and width of your influence in a way that glorifies Him.
5. Father, make my influence a direct result of my spiritual growth in You. Make my life bear fruit that lasts and encourages others to seek You as their source of life and strength.
