John, Tiffany and their two daughters hopped into the car one Sunday morning a couple months ago. The family had just recently made a decision to become more “spiritual.” John typed an address into GPS to get directions to a local Self Realization Fellowship shrine.
As they pulled up and got out of their car, they looked around with confusion and frustration. Instead of arriving at a temple for a time of Eastern meditation, this family from Encinitas, Calif., had pulled up in front of our new church plant. Their smartphone’s GPS had led them to a Foursquare church, instead.
They had never been inside a church, but they decided to go in because of the time they had already lost that morning. And John, Tiffany and their two girls found home. They are now a part of Bible studies, youth group and Sunday worship.
As a pastor, when I think about being “Compelled by Jesus,” I often immediately enlist myself as the one who must compel others. But, according to the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit and the Father hold that role.
“When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13, NKJV).
Thank God, who draws us to Himself with His power and speaks to our hearts with His Holy Spirit.
Prayer + Reflection
1. Ask the Holy Spirit to literally guide people to the truth, and ask the Father to draw those who may never step foot in our churches into the saving power of Christ.
2. Pray that you would keep in step with the Spirit, being sensitive in your interactions with people, assuming God is already active in their lives.
3. Ask the Holy Spirit to empower you to boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.
4. Pray for Foursquare area missionaries and evangelists who follow the Lord’s leading each day, and download a list of prayer needs.
Share your thoughts. See comments below, and add your own.
