Women of Influence (#301 of 365+)

“The people who know their God will display strength and take action” (Daniel 11:32 NASB)

I like the New King James Version of the same verse: “The people who know
their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.” Even though Daniel was prophesying about future events, his statement can be applied to believers at any point in human history. Take Lottie Moon, for instance. She was only 4’ 3” tall and single when she courageously accepted God’s call to be a missionary in northern China. Usually an outspoken and spirited woman, Lottie humbled herself and showed a deep respect for the Chinese people. She learned their customs, wore their clothing, and completely immersed herself into their culture. She faithfully led souls to Christ for forty years. Even when the missionary budget received drastic cuts she continued to share her provisions with those in need. She sacrificed everything for the sake of the cause and died of starvation at the age of seventy-two.

That one woman’s vision for souls and her uncompromising obedience to the Lord has inspired billions of dollars in donations over the years to the annual Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for Missions. Little did she know when she attended a revival service as a teenager that she would one day become the embodiment of God’s power in a tiny little package: “We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us” (2 Corinthians 4:7).

This week I heard a radio preacher caution believers to not be “driven” but to be “led” by the Lord. In a similar message, Joni reminded her readers today that a Christian can never be a man or a woman of influence if he or she rushes ahead of God. As today’s verse teaches: 1) Know the Lord, 2) Receive the Spirit’s power, and then I can 3) Do great things.

“Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house” (Matthew 5:15)

Father God, I love you. I know it isn’t about me; it’s all about You. Thank you for the work of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit so I could know you in a personal way. May the power of your life and light exude through me in a way that will influence countless souls for your eternal glory. Amen.