Topic: Power Of Influence [Monday April 3, 2017]
Text: 2 Chronicles 24:1-14
Key Verse “And Joash did that which was right in the sight of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest. And he gathered together the priests and the Levites, and said to them, Go out unto the cities of Judah, and gather of all Israel money to repair the house of the LORD. – 2 Chronicles 24:2-4
Someone said: “Whenever you hear of a man doing a great thing, you may be sure that behind it somewhere is a great background. It may be a mother’s training, a father’s example, a teacher’s influence, or an intense experience of his own. But it has to be there or else the great achievement does not come, no matter how favourable the opportunity.”
How true this is especially for spiritual leaders! They must influence worshippers and people who have had personal encounters with God. Jehoiada, the priest, had great positive influence on the young king Joash, in doing that which was right in the sight of the Lord. The single-mindedness and dogged determination of king Joash in ensuring that the task of repairing the temple was accomplished, must be the outcome of the impact of Jehoiada on his life.
He encouraged him in the act of teamwork. The church today needs visionary and committed leaders like this priest who would painstakingly lead members to fulfill their necessary responsibilities. As good as delegation of duty is in secular and in spiritual administration, leaders must still remember not to abdicate their responsibilities, but to impact others by exemplary lifestyle. The overwhelming response of all families in Judah is a proof that God’s work will never lack God’s resources. It is unscriptural to solicit financial assistance for the execution of God’s project from the ungodly.
If Christians will be faithful in paying their tithes, the church would be richer. Moreso, givers never lack. However, members in the local assemblies should be motivated to faithfully, cheerfully and bountifully give their offerings to raising befitting church buildings and other needful gospel-related physical projects. He who “soweth bountifully shall also reap bountifully”.
Thought for the day: Physical temple dignifies God; but spiritual ones please Him more.
Bible Reading in one Year: Deuteronomy 1-3
DCLM Daily Manna was written by Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.
