Ok. Now that we (at the Milton church) have an overview of our vision statement to “Go NOW And . . .” together with the idea of the stages of change that a person will naturally go through when considering Christ, now what do we do? For the next several sermons, we will be looking at the stages of change and the stimuli of the statement from Ellen White about where true success comes from.
Doing so, my hope and prayer is that you will be able to see yourself living the very actions that will make a tranformative change in the people you come in contact with. A greater impact on lives is the goal. Remember, the first stage of change is pre-contemplation. Connected with this reality is the stimulus of mingling with people. “How, what, and why should we mingle?” are the questions we will discuss in our time together.
C. S. Lewis once stated this profound thought, “Don’t shine so that others can see you. Sine so that, through you, others can see Him.” We will learn principles that will help your mingling with people shine so that people can see Him! Remember that principles will inform your practice. Therefore, having a clear understanding of the principles of mingling will help you practice things that will be redemptive and not destructive.
Mel Lawrenz, a Christian thought contributor, once stated, “The only enduring influence we have to offer others is the influence God has in our own lives.” Thinking deeply on this thought, one is led to understand that your personal relationship with Jesus will make a significant difference in the lives of all those you come in contact with. I desire to make an impact for good. I hope you do as well.
So, as you listen to the sermon thought today, take notes, think things through, and most importantly . . . apply that which is necessary for you to apply. It’s time to put our vision for our church to work. It’s time to Go NOW And . . . MINGLE!
So, until the next time, this is Pastor Tello reminding you that thoughts do change lives!
Pastor Howard Tello