Connecting With People

“If we are to become all that God has purposed for us, we need people.” – Pastor Billy Johnson.

 

The devil will do whatever he can to destroy relationships; to destroy the relationship with the person you need the most.

 

As we continue the series of Posturing for Growth, we must: Commune with God, Connect with People, and Commit to the Process.  Today’s focus is Part II: Connecting with People.

 

 

So that we may Posture for Growth, what kind of people do we need to connect with?

 

Connect With People Who Will Intercede For Us (I Thessalonians 1:2)

To intercede means to take the place of another, and hear what that person has need of.  It means to relate to someone at a deeper level and have the concerns of their heart. When one intercedes for you, they pray for you and cover you at a deeper level, asking for your needs on your behalf. Who will intercede and pray on your behalf?

 

“I am a rich man, because I have people praying for me.” – Pastor Billy R. Johnson.

 

 Connect With People Who Will Introduce You To Christ (I Thessalonians 1:5)

When you have known the needs of another, and interceded and prayed for them, now it is time to introduce them to Christ. Your intercession will give you a heart for that person, giving the opportunity to make the introduction to Christ.

“There is warfare over souls.” – Pastor Billy R. Johnson. (II Corinthians 4:3-5)

When we begin ministering the gospel, a war ensues. When the Word goes forth, its power penetrates darkness, lies and strongholds. As we intercede and put forth the Word, making the introduction to Christ is a necessary step for the battles that lie ahead.  (Romans 10:14,17)

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Connect With People We Can Imitate (I Thessalonians 1:6)

We need people (who are following Christ) we can imitate. A model or pattern of behavior that sets an example for us to follow.  God sets us in relationships with people so that we may be the pattern for others, or follow those who are following Christ. (I Timothy 4:12)

 

“Some of us are to be a pattern…” – Pastor Billy Johnson

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Connect With People Who Will Instruct Us (I Thessalonians 4:1)

We need to know how to live in a manner that is pleasing to God.  For there are those things that are not permissible. In the scripture, Paul said he may not always be there to instruct you; therefore your heart must be open to receive instruction from others.

“If He can’t have all of me, He can’t save any of me.” – Pastor Billy Johnson