influence 40 reading plan

8/12/2019 Influence 40 Reading Plan

1/40

TURNINGPOINT CHURCH READING PLAN #2 2014 TERM 1

Monday 24th February to Friday 4th April


2/40

304

Influence 40

InfluenceInfluenceInfluenceInfluence ---- 40404040

Welcome to Influence 40. We are underway on our journey to bringinfluence to our homes, families and communities. In Influence 40 wewill have readings from Monday Friday with Saturday and Sundayreflecting on the Vision /Motivationof TurningPoint.

This is a daily reading plan with bite-sized portions of scripture with nonebeing more than three chapters long. Why 40 Days?

Whenever God wanted to prepare someone for His purposes, He oftentook 40 days to get the message through.

Noahs life was transformed by 40 days of rain.

Moses was transformed by 40 days on Mount Sinai.

The spies were transformed by 40 days in the PromisedLand.

David was transformed by Goliaths 40-day challenge.

Elijah was transformed when God gave him 40 days ofstrength from a single meal.

The entire city of Nineveh was transformed when God

gave the people 40 days to change. Jesus was empowered by 40 days of fasting and prayer

in the wilderness.

The disciples were transformed by 40 days with Jesusafter His resurrection in preparation of the giving of theHoly Spirit.

In Influence 40 we have arranged 4 areas to help each of us eachworking during the week (weekends have a different program) toincrease the influenceGod can have in our life.

Pray with focus and openness to see what God has for you. God,

connect with me here, as I seek you in your Word.

Read the selected section of Scripture slowly. Take note of intriguing

words and phrases and read them a second time.


3/40

304

Influence 40

Reflect on what strikes you as you read. Think through what God iscommunicating to you at this point in your life.

Respond to the passage. Speak to God directly about whats on yourmind and heart. Look for ways to live out what youve uncovered.

To get the most from Influence 40, set aside 40minutes each day (this can be in 4 lots of 10minutes or 2 lots of 20 minutes) to read and reflecton the reading, memory scripture and meditationand Prayer. It is always more effective if the sametime/s each day are selected.

Just imagine the Influence that will come fromTurningPoint Church if we ALL be faithful andcommit to Influence 40. God wants to release us

to have great Influence in Cranbourne, Lyndhurstand KooWeeRup releasing us from old habits thathold us back and increasing our effectivenessthrough the Influencewe have with Jesus in us.

Remember to share your encouragement with others of how GodlyInfluenceshave challenged and changed your life.

It is Gods desire and plan that everyone should live a blessed life that isan Influence. In scripture, blessed has layers of meaning. To liveblessed encompasses living happy, prosperous and enjoying anabundant life. Over the next 40 days, we will unpack more of what itmeans to live blessed by God, regardless of your currentcircumstances.

As we spend time in the next week looking at the life of this man, I praythat you are encouraged. One thing is sureyou will never be the same

because of your commitment to Influence 40as God is no mans debtor!

Be blessed.

Ps PhilPs PhilPs PhilPs Phil


4/40

304

Influence 40

Lets follow the Influence of the early church as we readthrough the book of Acts over the next 40 Days.

1. Mission Possible Acts 1:1-8

2. Why Did Jesus Leave? Acts 1:1-26

3. Wow! What Just Happened? Acts 2:1-47

4. Give What You Have Acts 3:1-265. Dont Beat Around The BushJust Tell Them! Acts 4:1-37

8. Theres No Stopping Us Now! Acts 5:1-42

9. Heart Of A VolunteerExcellence Acts 6:1-15

10. Gods Personal Space (GPS) Acts 7:1-60

11. Threat Or Opportunity? Acts 8:1-40

12. Passionate Service Acts 9:1-43

15. Allowing The Holy Spirit To Connect Our Dots! Acts 10:1-48

16. God Encourages His Servants Acts 11:1-30

17. Under Attack Acts 12:1-25

18. The Good News SpreadsBig Time! Acts 13:1-52

19. The Uselessness Of Idolatry Acts 14:1-28

22. All Are Welcome At Gods Table! Acts 15:1-41

23. A Miracle At Midnight Acts 16:1-4024. Jesus Reigns! Acts 17:1-34

25. I Am With You! Love, Jesus Acts 18:1-28

26. For The Sake Of The Great Commission? Acts 19:1-41

29. How Are You Spending Your Life? Acts 20:1-38

30. The Fellowship Of The Faith Walkers Acts 21:1-40

31. Are We Zealous About The Right Things? Acts 22:1-30

32. Dont Worry! Acts 23:1-35

33. Touched But Not Changed Acts 24:1-27

36. A Life Worth Dying For Acts 25:1-27

37. Tell Others What You Have Learned About Me! Acts 26:1-32

38. Shipwreck Leadership Acts 27:1-44

39. From Jerusalem To RomeThe Gospel Is Proclaimed! Acts 28:1-31

40. Still to be written from the Influenceof our lives. Acts 29:1---


5/40

304

Influence 40

Day One - A Blessed Influential Life Monday 24thFebuary 2014

Reading: Mission Possible! Acts 1:1-8

The very first Psalm begins with is a declaration of praise, Praise theLord! Isnt that interesting? A blessed life begins with knowing God andout of that relationship flows a heart of praise and thankfulness. The

Bible teaches us that a heart that is thankful to God is a worshippingheart. You see, worship is not a ritual or an obligation. It is not just songsat the beginning of a corporate church service. Worship is a heart-response of gratitude and honour to God wherever you are andwhatever you are doing. You dont have to wait until you can find achurch building before you can praise and worship God worship is away of life.

When your focus changes from the problem to the

One who is your solution, your perspective begins tochange. A blessed life with God isnt a trouble-freelife, but amid the changing seasons, the ups anddowns of this life, we can live with a revelation thatGod is good and we are blessed to be an Influence.Even in the middle of a challenge or trial, you haveaccess to Gods blessing.

God is not distant. He is a close and loving Saviour,a friend, and a confidante. No matter whatcircumstances you find yourself in today, no matterhow small or great the task is before you, take yourfirst step toward living a blessed life - lift up yourvoice and praise God!

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Psalm 112:1 Praisethe Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the LORD,Who delights greatly in His commandments.

PRAYER: Worthy are You, Lord! Thank you for this life. Thank You forYour Word and for Your constant care and concern for me. Open myeyes to see the blessings You have given me. May my heart be alwaysthankful for Your provision, and may the words of my mouth andmeditations of my heart be pleasing to You today.


6/40

304

Influence 40

Day Two Generations of Influence Tuesday 25thFebuary 2014

Reading: Why Did Jesus Leave? Acts 1:1-26

A blessed life has more impact and influencethan we realise. You maythink that you are an exception to that rule, however, every interaction wehave with another has some kind of effect; a parent and child, a teacher

and student, a friend, colleague or a neighbour...I think most people would like to know that they have some degree ofpositive impact on others lives especially the ones close to them. Sohow can we ensure that we do?

Build your life according to Gods principles, just like the blessed mandescribed in Psalm 112:2 His descendants will be mighty on earth; thegeneration of the upright will be blessed. This speaks of people who are

strong, influential and making a positive difference in the world. Theblessed man or woman will also be the means of blessing for thegenerations that follow them.

Think about your own life. What example are you setting for thegenerations that follow? Proverbs 13:22 reminds us that a good manleaves an inheritance for his childrens children. You dont have to havechildren of your own to apply this verse to your life. What example areyou giving to your family or your colleagues? What is it about your lifethat will cause them to stop and take notice?

If you feel disqualified from setting-up the nextgeneration for blessing because of your upbringing orexperiences, I have good news for you! Not so! Whenwe turn from our old ways and live our lives according toGods principles, we are passing on blessing to futuregenerations.

SCRIPTURE: Deuteronomy 28:13 The Lord will make you the head, notthe tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that Igive you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top,never at the bottom.

PRAYER: Lord God, I pray that I will always look to the future knowingYou have gone before me. I ask for the grace to be a good steward ofthe blessings You have given me and for help to live well in order to be a

blessing to the generations to come.


7/40

304

Influence 40

Day Three - Make Room for Influence Wednesday 26thFebuary

Reading:Wow! What Just Happened? Acts 2:1-47

There is a scriptural quote that is often used in TurningPoint - We areblessed to be a blessing. I think this encapsulates Gods whole purposefor blessing. Abundance and success were the very first covenantcommandments He spoke to man. Be fruitful, multiply, replenish, havedominion... God wasnt only speaking about offspring, but of an entire lifeand environment of perpetual and generational blessing and increase.

If we are to be a blessing to others, our thinking must come in toagreement with what the Bible teaches about living blessed. In this way,our understanding of abundance and wealth is crucial. Unfortunatelythere are many Christians who dont realise that wealth and greed arenot the same.

The Bible handles these issues in different ways because they are notthe same thing. Psalm 35:27 says, Let the Lord be magnified, Who haspleasure in the prosperity of His servant. God is our Father and like anyloving parent He enjoys His children being blessed in every way,including financially. Simply put, it is Gods desire to bless us becauseHe loves us!

The key to aligning your attitude with blessing is what you put FIRST in

your life. Seek FIRST His Kingdom and all these things will be added toyou. (Matthew 6.33).

What you need to examine in your own heart is the issue of why youdesire to live an Influential, prosperous and blessed life what are thepurposes of your heart? Make room to receive blessing in your life bydetermining to understand the truth about Godly prosperity and byputting His Kingdom first, every step of the way. Then, decide you are

going to live your life as an Influence to be a blessing to others.SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Psalm 112:3 Wealthand riches will be in his house: and hisrighteousness endures forever.

PRAYER: Dear God, I pray that you would speakto me about Your will and desire for me financially.Give me eyes to see and ears to hear of the need

all around me. May I be Your hands and feet, ready and availableto bless others.


8/40

304

Influence 40

Day Four Influence through Challenges Thursday 27thFebuary

Reading: Give What You Have Acts 3:1-26

Ps 112:4, 6-7 says: Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness;He is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous... Surely he willnever be shaken...He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is

steadfast, trusting in the LORD.How is it that some people come through incredible challenges the betterfor them, yet others are crushed by lesser things? How can we remainunshaken and unafraid of bad news?

James 1:2-4, Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challengescome at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-lifeis forced in to the open and shows its true colours. So dont try to get out

of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature andwell-developed, not deficient in any way.

Growing through challenges has to do with your convictions - what youtruly believe. Worry and fear will rob you of faith and prevent you frommoving forward. But when you trust God you will have a firm belief in Hisreliability and a confident expectation that He will carry you throughanything that confronts you.

No one escapes challenges and trials; the difference is in how you facethem. Take Jamess advice and consider these a gift, then youllapproach any hardship from a position of strength and come through withincreased confidence in God and be an exceptional influence.

Today, develop strong spiritual muscle by spending time in His Wordand taking it to heart. Determine to know God more intimately andthrough every storm, keep your hope anchored in Jesus.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Hebrews 6:19 We have thishope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It entersthe inner sanctuary behind the curtain...

PRAYER: Thank you Lord that my hope is anchored inYou. No matter what comes my way, I choose to believethat You love me, You will provide for me and that myfuture is secure in Your hands.


9/40

304

Influence 40

Day Five Influence Deals Wisely - Friday 28thFebuary 2014

Reading: Dont Beat Around the BushJust Tell Them! Acts 4:1-37

Life is built line upon line, decision upon decision. Thats why thefoundation you begin with is so important. When your life is set on solidfoundations of belief in God and trust in His Word, our outlook is clearer

and our direction and Influenceare established.Just as the man who built his house upon the sand lost everything whenstorms came, if you build your life on anything apart from God, yourreference point toward the future is unstable - eventually things begin tounravel. A wise person has firm foundation. They are the one to whomothers look for guidance and direction, the one who has Influence.

Life is full of choices and depending on which choices you make will

determine the course your life takes. But Gods way will always point youin the direction of His purpose and fulfilment.

Perhaps you think youve gone too far down the wrong road, made toomany bad decisions to ever live a life of wisdom and discretion. Maybeyou feel like youve completely lost your way and cant find the way out...

Dont despair! Its NEVER too late to make a heartfeltchange and choose Gods path for your life. His way is

Jesus (John 14:6) and His Word is the light that shows youthe direction to go (Psalm 119:105). Gods grace will beginto relocate you on to the right road and establish your lifeon a foundation that will stand in a time of storms andteach you how to make wise decisions for the future anInfluentiallife!

Look to the Bible for guidance and wisdom. Pray and talk

with God every day, ask Him to reveal His purposes anddirection for your life.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Psalm 112:5 A good mandeals graciously and lends; He will guide his affairs with discretion.

PRAYER: God, give me the discretion and wisdom to deal witheverything life throws at me. May I hunger and thirst for Your Word, sothat when the storms come; I am firmly anchored and guided by Your

wisdom.


10/40

304

Influence 40

Saturday 1stMarch 2014

OUR TurningPoint MOTIVATION

For a Church:- that is a Family, operating as one unit with One Visionand purpose, with a place of expression and ministry for eachPartner/Member in it.

For a Church:- that will have a strong emphasis on the Word of God andWorship, cherishing the Precepts of God. Having contemporary styleand flavour being able to cater for the different sectors of our City.

How am I Influencingthese in my life

How am I praying for Cranbourne

Lyndhurst

Koo Wee Rup

Sunday 2ndMarch 2014

OUR TurningPointMOTIVATIONFor a Church: - that will be a Safe Place taking in the hurting,depressed, frustrated and restoring them, giving them encouragementand hope in Jesus.

For a Church: - that will develop every Member to discover their ownministry gifting through Connect groups, Care groups, Training groupsand Bible school, empowering them to use their God given Talents.

My Influence

Have I committed to serve in TurningPoint?

Have I arranged to invite people to TurningPointCranbournes24thBirthday celebrations?


11/40

304

Influence 40

Day Eight The Pathway for Influence - Monday 3rdMarch 2014

Reading: Theres No Stopping Us Now! Acts 5:1-42

An Influentiallife is one that will know success. Joshua 1:8 God promisesthat meditating on His word and living by it will, ...make your wayprosperous, and then you will have good success.

You may have heard the saying, Success is a journey, not a destination;the doing is often more important than the outcome. (Arthur Ashe). Thisis true of the blessed mans life. Too many people have the idea thatsuccess is a formula. Books have been written promising to reveal thesecret of success but the truth is, success is a pathway, a lifelongapproach to living by Gods principles.

Hebrews 6:12 tells us that the promises of God are accessed through

faith and patience. Faith is believing, but patience is the decision to keepon believing until those promises are realised. Patience is faiths bestfriend and without it, your life quickly gets off-course and confused -especially when you want to follow Gods plan for your life. Impatiencewill cause you to make unwise or rash decisions because you haventfactored in the element of time.

A successful farmer understands the value of time. He sows his seed

according to the crop he wants to harvest but he doesnt expect the cropto grow overnight! It takes time for anything to develop; including yourInfluence. Seed time harvest (influence).

Of course, life has a way of throwing curve-balls while the seeds ofsuccess are in the ground. Make the daily decision to believe God at HisWord, and that His promise for you is for success as you sow the seedsof faith and patience.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Psalm 112:8-9 His heart is established; Hewill not be afraid, until he sees his desire upon his enemies. He hasdispersed abroad, he has given to the poor; his righteousness enduresforever; his horn will be exalted with honour.

PRAYER: Lord, help me to be patient as I wait for your promises overmy life to be fulfilled. Fill my heart with hope and trust, knowing you are agood God and you desire good things for my life.


12/40

304

Influence 40

Day Nine Assurance of Influence - Tuesday 4thMarch 2014

Reading: Heart of a VolunteerExcellence Acts 6:1-15

Even the blessed man faces opposition. Even though nobody escapeschallenges or hardship in their life, Gods Word offers us assurance ofprotection. In Psalm 112 the man was able to withstand whatever

confronted him; even when wicked men plotted against him, they couldnot harm him.

Nothing has changed today. The book of Proverbs is full of Godlywisdom that we can apply to our daily lives. It is instruction for life - howto avoid pitfalls and the strategies of the enemy. When wisdom entersyour heart, and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, discretion willpreserve you; understanding will keep you, to deliver you from the way ofevil, from the man who speaks perverse things (Proverbs 2:10-12).

Weapons will be formed against you and attacks will come, but dont givethem an open invitation! Satan will look for any opportunity or permissionto wage an offensive against you - he looks for any advantage. But youcan cut off his angles of advantage by living like the righteous man ofPsalm 112. Flee sin, refuse to take offense, forgive quickly and continueto use wisdom in the daily decisions of your life and influenceothers.

Trusting and living for God isnt insurance against trouble but it doesmean that when it comes you can be confident that God will deliver you.Determine not to draw back when difficulties come - dont give the enemythat kind of advantage - Resist the devil and he will flee from you(James 4:7). Stay anchored in Gods Word, stay in church and beassured of Gods good promises over your life.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Psalm 112:10 Thewicked will see it and be grieved; he will gnash his

teeth and melt away

PRAYER: Whenever trouble comes, I will trust inYou. I believe what Your Word says, that noweapon formed against me shall remain and I claimthat now in Jesus Name.


13/40

304

Influence 40

Day Ten Guaranteed Victory & Influence - Wednesday 5thMarch

Reading: Gods Personal Space. Acts 7:1-60

Psalm 112:10 The desire of the wicked shall perish. Gods purposes forour life will stand in the final outcome. Our victory is guaranteed but itsnot something we can be passive about; there is something we must do

to make sure we access that victory for ourselves.

The key is to take on the spirit of an overcomer and come over thosemountains that face you. Galatians 6:9 reveals the profile of anovercomer: And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in dueseason we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

An Influencing Overcomer:

1. Refuses to grow weary.

2. Keeps on doing good.

3. Recognises their due season is coming.

4. Is committed to reaping.

5. Does not lose heart.

What specific challenge are you facing today? If you look at this situationthrough these characteristics of an overcomer, how would it change the

way you see things? An overcomers perspective is from the top of themountain instead of the bottom. When you understand that the GreaterOne lives in you and gives you the power to overcome, you change yourstandpoint.

Victory is assured when you do this a promise youll find many times inScripture. As in Rom 8:37, 1 Cor 15:57 and 2 Cor 2:14, meditate on themand see yourself overcoming your challenges as the opportunity forfuture Influence.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Philippians 1:6 says, He who has begun agood work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.

PRAYER: Lord, I desire to live a blessed life - the good life that You haveplanned for me. Help me always have the spirit of an overcomer as Inavigate life with You. Remind me to keep my eyes on Jesus, to notgrow weary and lose heart, but to walk in Your victory! The Greater One

lives in me and has overcome the world for me.


14/40

304

Influence 40

Day Eleven The Power of Great Relationships -Thursday 6thMarch

Reading: Threat or Opportunity? Acts 8:1-40

Relationships are foundational to life, so its worth spending some timelooking at how to develop great ones. Human beings were made forrelationship and every connection we have with others has some kind of

Influence relationships even have the power (influence) to make orbreak us. We simply cant afford to take them for granted; neither can weexpect to have great relationships if we dont invest effort in them.

What words would you use to describe the kind of relationships youwould like to build throughout your life? Theres a good chance qualitiessuch as faithfulness, loyalty, honesty and wisdom would be right up thereon your list. Yet all of us can probably think of a relationship that hascaused us great hurt.

In life, we should look at the foundation of all our relationships in thesame way that God does of the highest value and worthy of our verybest. Apart from Himself, people are the greatest gifts God has given us.When God wants to invest in to us and bless our life, He will often usethe influenceof people.

Are you experiencing problems in any of your relationships? Maybe in

your marriage or with your children or perhaps you are struggling withyour boss or employees. Dont despair! God has answers for you that areguaranteed to succeed when you put them to work. The Bible is loadedwith advice for building great and lasting relationships in marriage,friendship, parenthood, leadership, employer relations and partnerships.

Remember first that the foundation of all great relationships begins withyour own relationship with Jesus. Make investing in to that relationshipyour priority and He will teach you how to nurture and build a life of

strong, healthy connections.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Proverbs 13:20 He who walks with wisemen will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.

PRAYER: Dear God, I pray that you would bring great relationships intomy life. Help me to be the kind of friend to others that You are to me.Bring people in to my life that will build Godly principles and healthyhabits into my home.


15/40

304

Influence 40

Day Twelve The Influence of Friendship - Friday 7thMarch 2014

Reading: Passionate Service. Acts 9:1-43

Friendship is one of the key elements of a blessed life; but to reallyexperience the power of friendship, you must be a great friend yourself.The Bible has quite a bit to say about friendship. Proverbs 18:24 teaches

us two important things when it comes to being a friend:- If we want to have friends, we must first sowfriendship.

- If we try to be a friend to everyone thenwe cannot be a true friend to any.

Like-minded people are drawn to each other and the attitudes of those

you spend time with tend to rub off on you. When it comes to friendships,who you keep company with matters a great deal. Who we choose asour friends is so very important. Friends should build us up and take usforward; thats the kind of influencewe need.

A good friend is loyal and has the courage to be truthful with you always with your best interests at heart. Their honesty helps to keep youon track. Such friends will also help you not to become distracted withthings that have the potential to harm or sabotage your future.

Do you have these kinds of friendships? Are you sowing friendship? Areyou keeping good company and nurturing the friendships you have?Perhaps there are some friendships in your life that are a negativeinfluence... you may need to leave those behind. Pursue godly friendswho will help build your life and take you forward.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: John 15:13-14 Greater love has no one

than this, than to lay down ones life for his friends. You are My friends ifyou do whatever I command you.

PRAYER: Lord God, I ask You to bring a provision of fellowship in to mylife, or cause the friendships I already have to deepen. I ask forrelationships that refresh, fill, encourage and inspire - and that in turn, Iwould learn to be the type of friend who enriches the lives of others.


16/40

304

Influence 40

Day Thirteen - Saturday 8thMarch 2014


For a Church:- where every Member, Department, Small Group, andCorporate Meeting is constantly sharing the Good News of JesusChrist to the people of Casey.

For a Church: - that will form a strong base of 1000 members that knowthe Joy of the Lordwho can Live, Love, Learn and Laugh together.

Who has God put in my sphere to share the good news with?

How am I Influencing them with the joy of the Lord andbelieving that Cranbourne, Lyndhurst, Koo Wee Rup can reachto 1,000 strong members?

Day Fourteen - Sunday 9thMarch 2014


For a Church: - that is progressively Active in Missions, ministerialand financially, overseas and locally, planting and supporting a newoutreach church with Manpower, Resources and Ministry every 5 years.

For a Church: - that has a consistent user friendly Influence andimpact into the City with Coffee Shops, OP Shops, Bookshops, TrainingCentres.

Have I booked to go on a mission trips in 2014?

Have I planned to set up a place of Influence in 2014?

I am praying for the Next TurningPointChurch plant?


17/40

304

Influence 40

Day Fifteen The Influence of Partnership - Monday 10thMarch 2014

Reading: Allowing The Holy Spirit To Connect Our Dots! Acts 10:1-48

Why are two better than one? I can think of a whole lot of reasons whythis is so. God Himself said, It is not good for man to be alone and wentabout solving the problem of isolation by creating a companion and

helpmeet for him. I love that word because it describes beautifully whatpartnership is all about: connection, help, suitability and joining together.Partnership is working together for a common purpose. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 brings insight in to the benefits of partnership:

Good reward for their labour united in partnership, the impact andproductivity of our efforts increases exponentially in our favour to that ofour individual potential. Partnership increases our capacity.

Support in times of difficulty and challenge, a partnership shares theload and compensates for an area of lack. In facing tough situations, it isthose closest to you who will help you through and lift you up when youare down. When you stand alone you are more likely to be overpowered.

Companionship and contribution The comfort of a loving, caringrelationship is truly one of lifes great blessings. The benefits ofcompanionship are vast as each contributes to the other...

Strength in a common cause Every partnership has three strands:you, those you are partnering with and the common interest that holdsthe relationship together. Partnership and purpose go hand-in-hand.

Have you considered the kinds of partnerships and connections youhave in your life? It makes good sense to examine the purposes that tieyour partnerships together and determine whether they are leading youtoward fulfilment or failure.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Two arebetter than one; because they have a good reward fortheir laboura threefold cord is not quickly broken.

PRAYER: Father, show me which partnerships in mylife are leading me on the path of blessing. Help me togrow in my capacity and resilience, to nurture myhealthy life-connections and bring You honour in

Jesus Name.


18/40

304

Influence 40

Day Sixteen The Influence of Marriage - Tuesday 11thMarch 2014

Reading:God Encourages His Servants Acts 11:1-30

Marriage is a covenant relationship ordained by God created to empowerand bless us - and when that covenant bond is honoured, marriage hasgreat power. The definition of marriage is a hot topic lately. Over recent

centuries, divorce rates have escalated and generational fallout has beendevastating. Many people have become disillusioned with the concept ofmarriage. The truth is, like any relationship; successful marriages takecommitment and effort but the rewards are great and they aregenerational.

Building a strong marriage/relationship is a daily decision. Resolve to sortout issues of disagreement quickly, speak words of life to one another -dont tear each other down with your words. Finally, be committed to your

partners success because you will reap the benefits.

One of the main ingredients of a great marriage/relationship is unity andagreement. The three key areas are being united in love for one another,love for God and love for His Church.

If you are married, stop for a moment and think about what practicalthings you can do to strengthen your relationship. Is there some area ofdisagreement between you? Make the decision to sit down and discuss itcalmly together as a united team, not opponents. If you are thinkingabout marriage, make a commitment to building a godly character andask God to help you with your choice for a life partner.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Gen 2:22-24 Then therib which the LORD God had taken from man Hemade into a woman, and He brought her to the man.And Adam said: This is now bone of my bones and

flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman,because she was taken out of Man. Therefore aman shall leave his father and mother and be joinedto his wife, and they shall become one flesh.

PRAYER: Father God, thank You for marriage. Help me be the bestpartner I can be and give me the grace to rise above areas ofdisagreement to find unity, in Jesus Name.


19/40

304

Influence 40

Day Seventeen The Influence of Family - Wednesday 12thMarch

Reading: Under Attack. Acts 12:1-25

Just like marriage, family is Gods idea. God intended family as a placeof nurture, guidance, protection, forgiveness, love and Influence.However, He knows that in this fallen world, many people do not grow up

in families like that... perhaps you are among them.The good news is that our Heavenly Father has made provision foreveryone to experience family as He intended. When we accept JesusChrist as our Lord, we enter in to Gods family we become His children,sons and daughters of the Most High.

Psalm 68:6, God sets the solitary in families, a beautiful picture of Hisheart for the alone and the rejected. The power of any healthy family lies

in its unconditional embrace. For the lonely, the grieving or theabandoned the embrace of family brings healing and wholeness. OurTurningPoint churches are families, created to accept whosoever maycome (Rev 22:17). Building relationships within our churches is awonderful way to experience the benefits of family connection.

When you were born, you became a part of someone elses family butwhen you become a parent, you will create a family of your own. Asparents, we long to provide the very best we can for our children. Youmay look at your family and be discouraged or you may be at a loss toknow what to do to help your children. Take heart - your Heavenly Fatherhas provided you with a wealth of wisdom and counsel in His Word, anopen-all-hours access to Him through prayer and a church familyoffering love and support.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Psalm 68:6God sets the solitary in families; He brings

out those who are bound in to prosperity;but the rebellious dwell in a dry land.

PRAYER: God, You are my Father. ThankYou for the gift of family. I ask You for thewisdom and understanding to appreciateand nurture my own family and tostrengthen and support other families in

my world. In Jesus Name.


20/40

304

Influence 40

Day Eighteen - Building Great Relationships - Thursday 13thMarch

Reading: The Good News SpreadsBig Time! Acts 13:1-52

Do you remember we talked about how relationships are foundational tolife? The most important of them all is your relationship with God. Thishas the power to influenceevery other relationship in your life, but if you

know God and put Him first, then the potential for all your otherconnections to be a strength and blessing to you is greatly increased.

Whatever you prioritise in your life will be strengthened. So when you putyour relationships first then they will prosper. Psalm 84:5 reminds us thatthere is a link between our relationship with God and the road to a fulland overcoming influential life. God created us for intimate relationshipwith Him. Once sin entered, that potential was all but lost. Yet God tookpersonal responsibility to restore our chance for intimacy with Him by

sending His precious Son Jesus.

Acknowledging who Jesus isand what He did is the key torestoring your connection withGod and to building greatrelationships in your life. Howis your relationship with God

today? Does it take first placein your life?

Perhaps the busyness of dailylife has crowded it out of yourthoughts and time. Set aside afew moments each day tospend time in His presenceand build the most importantrelationship you will ever have.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Psalm 84:5 Blessed are those who findstrength in You. Their hearts are on the road that leads to You.

PRAYER: Father God, help me to put You first in my life so that all of myrelationships can grow from strength to strength. Help me to sowfriendship, companionship and faith across the entire spectrum of my lifeso that I can both experience and be a channel of Yourblessing.


21/40

304

Influence 40

Day Nineteen How to Flourish in Life - Friday 14thMarch 2014

Reading: The Uselessness of Idolatry. Acts 14:1-28

The decisions you make will determine whether your life can flourish ornot. A flourishing life is a blessed life. Jeremiah likens it to a tree plantedby waters - something that flourishes is alive, healthy and growing

Jeremiah 17:8 says, For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters,which spreads out its roots by the river...

Jeremiah 17 draws a clear contrast between a person who trusts in theLord and one who does not. Through His Word, God has laid out anobvious distinction between the consequences of following Him orfollowing our own way. At the foundation of both is a decision. InDeuteronomy 30:19 this decision is laid out in black and white, life ordeath, blessing or cursing...therefore choose life so that you and yourdescendants may live.

Are you planted? Just like the tree, if we are to flourish and producefruit we have to have our roots down in order to receive regularnourishment. Are you established in a local church where you canreceive guidance, encouragement and thrive in your gifts and talents?

Are you easily uprooted? If you continually uproot and replant a tree, it

wont be long before that tree begins to wither and die. Its important tobe connected with others in your church and to invest your time andenergy there putting your roots down deep.

Can you handle the weather? Are you resilientthrough good times and bad or do you have atendency to uproot and run away from challenges?When the heat is on or storms come, stay planted.If something is stopping you from flourishing, choose life and position

yourself for blessing so you can be a Godly influencein your community.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Psalm 92: 12-13 The righteous shall flourish likethe palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted inthe house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God.

PRAYER: Father God, today I choose life. I choose to follow You andobey Your Word so that my life and the life of my family can truly flourish.In Jesus Name. Amen.


22/40

304

Influence 40

Day Twenty - Saturday 15thMarch 2014

OUR TurningPointMOTIVATION

For a Church: - that Facilitates Care and Educationhaving its ownChristian School, Kindergarten, Day Care, Play Group and Mothersgroups.

For a Church: - that has its own simple yet Practical Buildings forChurch (1000 seat auditorium, Sunday school rooms and offices) andSchool (Kinder to VCE of approximately 500 student) established onapproximately 10 acres of well set out land and gardens.

We have seen God answer so many of these areas already inCranbourne

but have we started believing for Lyndhurst andKooWeeRup?

Day Twenty One - Sunday 16thMarch 2014

OUR TurningPoint MANDATE

To bring people into a close and meaningful relationship with their Lord

and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

To train and develop people for active service in Gods Kingdom locally andabroad.

To release and enrich the personal life of every believer into the fullnessof Gods blessing.

To develop a sense of Christian Family through caring, sharing, training,

praying and worshipping.

To support and help existing Churches of like mind in their endeavours toserve the Kingdom of God.

To establish new outreaches and Churches locally and abroad, providingministry for their development.

To be missionary orientated, supporting and helping where possible,

various missionary endeavours.


23/40


24/40

304

Influence 40

Day Twenty Three A Flourishing Influential Church -Tuesday 18thMarch

Reading: A Miracle at Midnight. Acts 16:1-40

Church should be an environment where people can grow and flourish inlife. In Pauls letter to Timothy, he describes four stages in the growthand maturity of a Christians life that contribute to building a healthy

church. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to begenerous and willing to share. 1 Timothy 6:18

1.

.

. , !

2.

.3. .

10, , .

4.

, ,

.

.

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, justas your soul prospers. 3 John 2 describes how prosperity and health arethe result of a prosperous soul. Those who are planted in Gods Houseand share the load, constitute the healthy soul of a church. Yourcommitment and contribution to TurningPoint not only allows you tothrive, but it causes TurningPoint and other Churches to flourish.

SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 4:12 His intention was

the perfecting and the full equipping of the saints(His consecrated people), [that they should do] thework of ministering toward building up Christsbody (the church)...

PRAYER: Lord, I want to truly grow and mature in my Christian life andto be a source of strength and support to the Church You so greatly love.Grant me a prosperous soul so that I can live a full and productive lifeand be a Godly influence in Your House. Amen.


25/40

304

Influence 40

Day Twenty Four Healthy Mind Wednesday 19thMarch

Reading: Jesus Reigns! Acts 17:1-34

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnalbut mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,casting down arguments and every high thing

that exalts itself against the knowledge of God,bringing every thought in to captivity to theobedience of Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:4-5)

What you allow to occupy your thinking has a powerful impact on whoyou are and what you become. If you want your life to flourish andprosper, start by looking at what is going on in your thought-life.

Negativity, criticism, apathy, fearfulness, offense and so on, are like

poison to your life. Likewise, yielding to temptation sets you on a deadlycourse. Left unchecked, such thoughts take root in your heart andsabotage your future. James 1:14-15, Temptation comes from our owndesires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth tosinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.

Are you struggling with your thoughts? The Bible has answers to helpyou overcome in every area of life. Start by acknowledging the problemand come to God for forgiveness and help. Open your Bible and begin tofill your mind with Gods promises meditate on them, speak them aloudand feed your mind with godly thinking, strengthening your soul. Paulsadvice in Philippians 4:8 is so powerful: Finally, brethren, whateverthings are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just,whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things areof good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anythingpraiseworthymeditate on these things. And be an influence.

When opposition comes in whatever form, focus your thoughts and yourheart on God and receive His grace to endure and overcome. Practisethis daily and you will build a healthy mind, resilient to troubles.

SCRIPTURE: For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. Proverbs 23:7

PRAYER: Oh Lord, forgive me for my wrong thinking and teach methrough Your Word how to renew my mind and have a healthy andpositive thought-life. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of myheart to be acceptable in Your sight, in Jesus Name. Amen.


26/40

304

Influence 40

Day Twenty Five - Influence for the Long Haul -Thursday 20th

March

Reading: I Am With You! Love, Jesus. Acts 18:1-28

King Solomon wrote the book of Proverbs to instruct its readers in the artof living. In Proverbs 1:7, he connects reverence for God with the abilityto live with knowledge and wisdom. Throughout Proverbs, Solomon

contrasts the path of life for the wise to that of a fool - the person whodoesnt believe God or value His Word.

When you love and respect someone, you will value and trust their word.Likewise, if you love and respect God then you will value and trust HisWord the Bible. It will influenceyou and you will influence others.

Simply put, wisdom is applying Gods Word to your everyday life. Ifyou want to live a blessed life, the pathway is found through making wise

choices every day. The most important decision you will ever make is tolove and honour God and accept Jesus as your Lord. You are then inprime position to receive the wisdom to navigate your life as Gods Wordbecomes your principal source of direction.

At times, we all fall short and can make unwise choices. We knowhowever, that God is a loving God full of grace, mercy and forgiveness.However, as we read the Word and are transformed into His image, wewill obtain wisdom in every area of life.

Is there something you are facing today that you dont know how to dealwith? Perhaps you need some guidance concerning your job or arelationship, or maybe your life just needs a change in direction. God hasyour answers and He is ready to show you. Making wise choices for yourlife is the daily decision to prioritise Gods Wordand apply it in any and every circumstance.

SCRIPTURE: If any of you lacks wisdom, lethim ask of God, who gives to all liberally andwithout reproach, and it will be given to him.James 1:5

Prayer: Father, Your Word promises if I askYou for wisdom, You will give it to me. ThankYou for the wisdom to carry out myresponsibilities and in the decisions I must make today.


27/40

304

Influence 40

Day Twenty Six - Finding Wisdom & Influence - Friday 21stMarch

Reading: Are You Poured Out For The Great Commission? Acts 19:1-41

A litmus test for how much you value and believe the Word of God is howmuch you prize and seek after obtaining godly wisdom. According toProverbs 8:11 wisdom is the most valuable thing anyone can acquire.

Wisdom is better than rubies, and all the things one may desire cannotbe compared with her. Proverbs 4:7 tells us, Wisdom is the principalthing; therefore get wisdom!

If we are told to GET WISDOM; that means it is available to us. It alsomeans we have to do something if we want it. When a mother calls out atdinnertime, Come and get it! it doesnt mean your meal will arrive inyour lap without a move. Shes telling you to get up from what you are

doing and go and get your meal. In the same way, if you want to findwisdom you have to be deliberate about getting it, about seeking after it.

Are you standing at a crossroad in your life wondering which way to go?How do you make your decision? Have you asked God for His wisdom inthe situation?

Jesus spoke about two gates that lead to two different destinations anarrow and a wide gate. One leads to life, the other to death. This is

where wisdom is pivotal to your future.

1 Corinthians 1:30 tells us that God made Jesus to be wisdom for us.Wisdom is available to us whenever we seek it and it is found in Jesus andHis Word. In John 14:6 Jesus said, I Am the Way, the Truth and the Life.

Take a moment to meditate on these verses about wisdom and make it ahabit to seek after Godly wisdom each and every day: Ephesians 1:15-21; 1 Corinthians 3:18-23; James 1:5; James 3:13-18.

Prayer: Father God, Wisdom is found in You. Give me the spirit ofwisdom and revelation so I can truly know You in ever-increasingmeasure and discover Your path for my life so I can be a Godly influence

for You.


28/40

304

Influence 40

Day Twenty Seven - Saturday 22ndMarch

Prayer is simply two-way communication between you and God.

Talking to Him, telling Him about your struggles and cares and thenlistening for His voice. Sometimes we dont remember prayer includeslistening.

Remember to give Him time to speak to you in His still small voice - (1Kings 19:12). God speaks to us through His Word. Spend some timemeditating on what you read and letting God speak into your life.

The following acronym may be helpful in learning how to pray:

P Praise. Voice your love and worship to Jesus.

R Repent of any sin God may remind you of. Ask Him to point out any

sin in your life; if He does, listen, confess and turn away from it.

A Ask. Share your prayer desires with the Lord.

Y - Yield. After youve made your asks of God, willingly yield your will toHis perfect will; knowing that He can be trusted to do whats best.

Day Twenty Eight - Saturday 23rdMarch

Commit to Praise.

God has created us to praise Him. 1 Peter 2:9 says, But you are achosen people ... belonging to God, that you may declare the praises ofHim who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. You canexpress your praises silently or declare them in a loud voice. There is noright or wrong way. You may even want to sing a song of worship in yourdevotional time.

Many Christians find that Journaling helps them stay on track duringtheir devotional time. You can journal your thoughts and prayers,providing a valuable record. Later you will be amazed and encouragedwhen you go back and note the progress youve made or see theevidence of answered prayers. Journaling is not for everyone. Give it atry and see if its right for you.


29/40

304

Influence 40

Day Twenty Nine - Applying Wisdom to Your Life Monday 24th

March

Reading: How Are You Spending Your Life? Acts 20:1-38

Building something that lasts is not a process of guesswork but of carefulplanning. If you want to build a resilient and successful life it wonthappen using a hit-or-miss approach. We are all in the process of

building our lives, so what plans are you following?Previously, we spoke about why some people come through tough timesand others dont depending on the foundation they have built their livesupon. When we apply the wisdom of God to our life we will not only havea blessed and Influentiallife but we will have what it takes to keep goingthrough trials and set-backs.

Far too many people ignore wisdom because either they dont want tohear it or they dont recognise it when they do. Wisdom has to be sown into your life before it can produce fruit.

One of the first indicators of wisdom is your words. What is inside you willcome out. If you havent fed your soul with Gods wisdom then wisdomwont come forth from your lips. Proverbs 10:21 says, The lips of therighteous feed many, but fools die for lack of wisdom. In the same way,if you keep company with wise people, receiving their advice, you willgain wisdom. Proverbs 13:20 says, He who walks with wise men will be

wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.Stop and think for a moment - are you feeding on wisdom? What kind ofwords are you speaking regularly? Are your words feeding others or arethey pulling down? Make a decision today to lean in to wisdom. Receivewisdom from wise people, feed on Gods wisdom every day. Positioningyourself to receive and apply positive, life-giving words is an essentialkey to building a blessed and productive life.

Scripture Reference:Proverbs 2:1 My child, listen towhat I say, and treasure mycommands.

Prayer: Lord I ask You for ears to hear and a heart to receive Yourwisdom for my life. Help me to recognise Your voice in others and maymy voice be one that feeds many and influences them for You.


30/40

304

Influence 40

Day Thirty Finding Wisdom - Tuesday 25thMarch

Reading: The Fellowship of The Faith Walkers . Acts 21:1-40

In Proverbs 8:11, we are told that wisdoms worth is incomparable.Proverbs 3:14 says, For her proceeds are better than the profits ofsilver, and her gain than fine gold.

Why is wisdom so valuable? When you apply wisdom to your life, awealth of benefits will connect to you. Proverbs 3 and 4 describe some ofthe benefits wisdom will add to your life:

Happiness (3:13)Long life (3:16)Riches and honour (3:16)Peace (3:17)

Safety (3:23)A stumble-free walk (3:23)

Anxiety free (3:24)Sweet sleep (3:24)Protection (3:25)Confidence (3:26)

Promotion (4:8)Healing and health (4:22)

Gods freely available wisdom to our lives. It may sound obvious, but wecan never run out of room for wisdom God makes it available inunlimited supply and ever-increasing measure if you continue to pursue itthroughout your life. No matter how full of wisdom you think you are,theres always room for more! Benjamin Franklin once said, The doors

of wisdom are never shut. Wisdom is always crying out wherever youare and in whatever circumstance you find yourself.

Perhaps you can hear wisdoms voice competing for your attention rightnow. Are you in the process of making a decision between what youwant and what you know is best? Wisdom is crying out to you Chooseme! If you do, the benefits are a guarantee.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Proverbs 3:14-15 For her proceeds are

better than the profits of silver, and her gain than fine gold. She is moreprecious than rubies, and all the things you may desire cannot comparewith her.

PRAYER: Today Lord, help me to recognise the voice of Your wisdomand apply it to my life so that I can enjoy all the benefits You haveplanned for me. I ask You also that I will grow daily in Your wisdom andbe a source of godly wisdom influencing others for You.


31/40

304

Influence 40

Day Thirty One - The Benefits of Wisdom - Wednesday 26thMarch

Reading: Are We Zealous About The Right Things? Acts 22:1-30

Wisdom is the key to the kind of life you dream about living. God is thesource for everything that has to do with life and blessing and thatespecially includes wisdom which, as we have seen, is on constant and

abundant supply for anyone who desires it. It is simply a matter of tuningyour ear to it and applying it to your life.

The Bible contains a wealth of godly wisdom for every conceivablecircumstance you will face in your life including matters of family andrelationships, finances and career and is the key to finding inner peace.

Wisdom is the road to a truly blessed life and wisdom is what will keepyou there. No wonder Solomon urges us to keep her [wisdom], for she is

your life (Proverbs 4:13).

I trust you can see more clearly why wisdom is beyond price and to bedesired above anything else this life can offer. It is found only in God andis readily available in the Bible His Word our instructions for life.

I encourage you to take a moment and think about how wisdom can takeyour life forward. The fact is that the wisdom of God provides theanswers to your impossible questions and is the key to unlock your

destiny and blessing. All you have to do is ask.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE:Prov 4:18 The path of therighteous is like the morningsun, shining ever brighter tillthe full light of day.

PRAYER: Father, above allelse, I desire the wisdomthat comes from You andYour Word. Give me earsto hear and eyes to see sothat I will recognise Yourwisdom when it comes, and the strength to choose her path every day no turning back. Then I can influenceothers in the right way.


32/40

304

Influence 40

Day Thirty Two -Living in Health and Wholeness Thursday 27th

March

Reading:Dont Worry! Acts 23:1-35

God has provided everything we need to live a life of health andwholeness. The Bible teaches us that we are a spirit, we have a soul andwe live in a body.

When we are born again, our spirit comes alive. At that point, our mindbegins the process of renewal as we feed on Gods Word. In relation tothis, our body or flesh should begin to cooperate rather than competewith Gods Word. This is how we work out our salvation in Christ(Philippians 2:12) - it is a process, not an event - a journey, not adestination. When Jesus came to earth and lived as a man, Luke 2:40tells us He became strong in spirit and in Hebrews 5:8 that, though Hewas a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered.

No matter who you are, or how many years youve been a Christian,everyone will come up against challenges and trials at times. But it is inthese times you discover the strength of your spirit and the health of yoursoul especially when dealing with sickness or physical issues. Thatsnot to say that we dont recognise such things take a toll, and that welook to both God and people for comfort, but the Bible tells us not to letthe troubles of this world devastate you. Proverbs 18:14 in the Message

says, A healthy spirit conquers adversity, but what can you do when thespirit is crushed?

Are you committed to going the distance in your life with God? Takingcare of your earthly body is God-glorifying. Dont allow yourself to burnout, dont push your mind, soul and spirit to the breaking point - instead,listen to the Word of God and apply godly wisdom and good parametersthat will develop your sense of wellbeing.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1 Thessalonians 5:23 Now may the God ofpeace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul,and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord JesusChrist.

PRAYER: Thank You for Your Word, which is life and health to me. Helpme to live in health and wholeness. I receive the prayer that John prayedthat I would prosper and be in health even as my soul prospers.


33/40

304

Influence 40

Day Thirty Three - Healthy - Friday 28thMarch

Reading:Touched But Not Changed. Acts 24:1-27

The Bible is a comprehensive manual, filled with Gods Divine wisdom forhealth and wholeness. Living a healthy life goes well beyond our physicalbody. It involves every aspect of our life including building healthy

relationships and attitudes, influencingevery part of our lives.Do you believe good health is Gods will for your life? I most definitely do!Good health has been a very real friend to Gods plan for my life. It wasonly just a few years ago when I realised that not taking care of my ownbody would interfere with the purposes of God for me. How much valuedo you place on your health and wellbeing?

Gods will for you is health, not sickness. However, when you are sick

God is your Healer. If we are honest, we would all know of someonewho has had to deal with some kind of physical sickness and challenge.And despite this fact, the prevailing truth is that we have a Name whichis far above every other name (Ephesians 1:21). At the Name ofJesus, the name of cancer, depression, heart disease, mental illness,diabetes, chronic conditions, addiction and any other illness must bow. Ifyou are fighting some kind of sickness or disability, the wonderful news isthat God is on your side! His will is for your health and wholeness and

His desire is that you settle for nothing less.

I encourage you today; dont allow physical or emotional deficiency tooverwhelm you. God is your true source of healing and His Word is full ofmedicine for your recovery. Take your medicine today by meditating onscriptures that will infuse life into your body as you feed on them in yoursoul. Here are some to get you going: Isaiah 53:5, Psalm 100:3, 139:14,Proverbs 17:22, Matthew 12:15, John 10:10.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Proverbs 4:20,22 Give attention to my words; incline yourear to my sayings... for they are life to thosewho find them and health to all their flesh.

PRAYER: I speak the Name of Jesus over sickness and disease. Ichoose life, not death - blessing not cursing. I declare by faith in YourWord and the work of the cross that I am made whole, now and forever.


34/40

304

Influence 40

Day Thirty Four Saturday 29thMarch

Heaven and Home

Heaven is our home - our destination - but I think all too often, we forgetthis ultimate detail in the daily grind of life. From time to time, we need totake stock to see that the heading of our life is set on eternity and that

we are tracking on course. This means we need to evaluate: What have Ibeen prioritising? Have my decisions been aligning me with Gods planfor the future? Am I considering the consequences of my decisionsbefore I make them? The answers to these Questions determine ourInfluence.

Without doing this, other things will rob us from investing into the thingsthat truly matter so we can be the Influence of Love and stability God hasplanned us to be. His love has the first and last word in everything we

do. Rev 21:14

Day Thirty Five Sunday 30thMarch

Ask yourself.

Have you ever asked yourself, What does God value most? The Biblemakes it very clear: Above all, God highly prizes Jesus, His Church andthe lost. The evidence of this is clear in the sacrifice of His best to ensure

we have a secure home with Him both on earth and eternally.

When you live with the understanding and awareness that Heaven isyour home, your priorities, decisions, relationships and future will comeinto alignment with Gods unique plan and purpose for you. Proverbs4:18 says, The path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines everbrighter unto the perfect day.

Live with Heaven in your sights, eternity in your heart and your focus onGod and the influence we can be to people. This is the truly blessed life.Revelation 21:3-5 God has moved in to the neighbourhood, making hishome with men and women! Theyre his people, hes their God. Hellwipe every tear from their eyes. Death is gone for goodtears gone,crying gone, pain goneall the first order of things gone. The Enthronedcontinued, Look! Im making everything new.


35/40

304

Influence 40

Day Thirty Six Influence of being Healed - Friday 31stMarch

Reading: A Life Worth Dying For. Acts 25:1-27

Do you believe that God is your healer? It saddens me that so manypeople especially Christians do not have this revelation. Manycategorise sickness as Gods teaching tool or the consequence of sin,

but if this were true wed all be sick and dying!The book of Job is an interesting study on the question of sickness. Theaccusation and actions of Satan, the kindness of God, the experiences ofJob and the advice of so-called comforters, play out in thisShakespearean-like story of sudden and devastating loss. Jobs friendshad differing ideas about why all the ruin had come upon him. Onedeclared that Jobs sickness was his own fault - otherwise, God wouldhave healed him. Another attempted to persuade him that the sickness

was Gods will.

Neither of these are the truth when it comes to healing and God. AmongHis many names is Jehovah Rapha - the Lord that Heals. Exodus15:26 declares, I am the Lord who heals you- Gods will for us ishealing and wholeness; nothing missing, nothing broken.

Job refused to lower his beliefs to the level of his experience, choosinginstead to stand firm on who he knew God to be. The outcome for Jobwas total healing and the restoration of all he had lost, twice over.

John 10:10 says that Satan comes ONLY to steal, kill and destroy butJesus gave us a better covenant not law, but grace. Jesus provided alife of abundance to enjoy in overflowing measure. Sickness is part of thecurse (Deut 28); health and wholeness belong to the blessed life.

Are you sick? Have you received a negative health report? I have great

news! Your healing is at hand - the hand of YOUR Healer. Allow God'sWord to res tore your body as you lean in to His everlasting arms.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Malachi 4:2 The Son of Righteousness shallarise with healing in His wings.

PRAYER: Father, You are my Healer. I know that You can doeverything, and that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You. Justlike Job, I look to You for my healing and trust that You will take care of

me - spirit, soul and body.


36/40

304

Influence 40

Day Thirty Seven The Influence of being Whole Tuesday 1stApril

Reading: Tell Others What You Have Learned About Me! Acts 26:1-32

Do you want to be made whole? Jesus asked this very question of theinvalid at the Pool of Bethesda. Have you ever wondered why Jesusasked this question to a man who had suffered his affliction for thirty-

eight years?Perhaps the question was about more than just physical healing. I thinkwhat Jesus was actually asking was, Do you want to be complete? Doyou really know what wholeness will mean, and the responsibility it willbring? Yes, God is our Healer but His desire is for us to be whole body, soul and spirit.

Along with needing physical healing, many of us have emotional

brokenness and spiritual issues that prevent us from living in the fullnessof Gods blessing. As humans, we tend to focus on and react more to thethings that are going on around us but pay little attention to what is goingon inside us.

When something is broken, it doesnt function properly and when you arebroken on the inside, you are much more vulnerable. Wholeness comeswhen you are willing to take on the responsibility to change on the insideand deal with the attitudes and mindsets that can hold you back fromliving a blessed life.

Proverbs 18:14 in the Amplified Bible says, The strong spirit of a mansustains him in bodily pain or trouble, but a weak and broken spirit whocan raise up or bear?

How is your inner man? Are you hiding brokenness thatyou are too ashamed or overwhelmed to deal with? Do

you want to be made whole?SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Psalm 139:14 I will praiseYou, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvellousare Your works, And that my soul knows very well.

PRAYER: Father, there is no limit to the wholeness You bring. Help meto find the courage of faith to trust You with the areas of my inner life thatneed renewing so I can live a life of wholeness and be a Godly influence.


37/40

304

Influence 40

Day Thirty Eight Influence of Peace Wednesday 2ndApril

Reading: Shipwreck Leadership. Acts 27:1-44

Peace is something everyone aspires to in some degree. Whether its aworking mum who longs for a moment of peace and quiet or whethertwo powerful allies are working through the intricacies of political

negotiation, the idea of peace is living in a state of contentment andtranquillity of security, freedom and social harmony.

Youve probably heard of the expression Is the glass half empty or halffull? This is a way you can measure a persons perspective. What doyousee when you look at the glass? Do you focus on what you have orwhat you dont have? What you focus on in life determines whether ornot you will experience peace in your heart. The Bible gives us clearinstructions about finding and living in a place of peace, as well as what

takes away our peace:

What a worry worry is! Anxiety and worry work in opposition to innerpeace. When you are worried or anxious about something, you do nothave peace. In fact, worrying is a genuine health-hazard! Proverbs 12:25says Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, or Worry weighsa person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.

Worrying is about trusting in your own ability but Philippians 4:6-7 says,Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication,with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and thepeace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your heartsand minds through Christ Jesus. Peace cannot be earned, but it can befound. The key is to turn worry in to thanksgiving.

Romans 5:1 Teaches us that because we are justified by faith in Jesus,we have peace with God. The grace of God means you dont have to

earn peace, it comes through faith in Jesus, relying on and believing inHis Word.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Colossians 3:15 Letthe peace of God rule in your hearts, to which alsoyou were called in one body; and be thankful.

PRAYER: Father I desire to live in peace. Help meto trust You with the challenges I face and to focus on all that You have

done in my life with a thankful heart.


38/40

304

Influence 40

Day Thirty Nine Influence of a Balanced Life Thursday 3rdApril

Reading: From Jerusalem to Rome! Acts 28:1-31

Have you ever considered how something that is good for you can also bebad for you? How could this be? Proverbs 25:16 Have you found honey?Eat only as much as you need, lest you be filled with it and vomit.

Health and harm can come from the same source when it is out ofbalance. Some may think living a balanced life is to live a boring, neutraland unemotional life, but nothing could be further from the truth. Balanceis what keeps our life on track, secure and moving forward; it meansmaking wise choices concerning every area of life. Living with balance islike riding a bike - as you get your momentum up, the experience iseasier and feels more natural.

As the proverbs suggests, enjoy the things that bring you pleasure, butbe careful not to overdo it. Too much of something good can hurt you.Its good to exercise regularly, but if you overdo it your body will suffer.Overtraining is a common problem with athletes and weight training;when an individuals exercise exceeds their capacity to recover, theystop progressing and they can begin to lose strength and fitness. On theother side of the balance scale, too little exercise will also causeproblems such as increase of body fat, reduction in muscle mass andother health concerns.

The lesson for us all is to avoid excess toomuch of anything is not good for you and it carriesover in to every area of life - work and rest, careerand family, sleep and activity and so on.Remember the principle of sowing and reaping. Ifyou sow balance by making wise choices, you willreap a long, happy, healthy and blessed life.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1 Peter 5:8 Be well balanced (temperate,sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy ofyours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger],seeking someone to seize upon and devour.

PRAYER: Lord, help me to live with balance. Show me where I need tochange my habits and behaviour and give me the grace to sow goodseed in my life so I can reap happiness and health and influence others

for You.


39/40

304

Influence 40

Day Forty The Influence of Your Life - Friday 4thApril

Reading: Acts 29:1-it is still to be written from the Influenceof our lives.

Oscar Wilde once said, To live is the rarest thing in the world. Mostpeople exist, that is all.

Life is a gift from God, given to be lived and enjoyed. Jesus did not leave

His home in Heaven to endure the cross and overthrow the powers ofdarkness so that we could merely exist.

John 10:10 in the Amplified Bible says, I came that they may have andenjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows). Toomany people spend their life in pursuit of happiness but the only sourceof true joy and fulfilment is found in Jesus Christ nowhere else.

The Bible is our roadmap to a full and satisfying life it contains thewisdom and principles to rescue us from the clutches of hopelessnessand death and to put us on the pathway of an overflowing and fruitful life.Everything you and I need to maximise our life, to reach our full potential,to see our dreams become reality, to be a part of this earths solutionrather than its problem, is discoverable within Gods Word andrelationship with Jesus. 1 Timothy 6:17 reminds us that God gave us allthings richly to enjoy not endure. If you find yourself wondering whyyour life isnt what you want it to be, your answers begin with relationshipwith Jesus. If you already know Christ as Saviour and yet you areunhappy with your life, run to Him He is the source of life and theanswer to every conceivable lack you may be experiencing.

God is not legalistic, He is gracious and He has given us everythingneeded to live life well. Through the Bible, we have the wisdom andinstruction to develop a positive attitude and a productive life.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Psalm 16:11You will show me the path of life; In Yourpresence is fullness of joy; At Your righthand are pleasures forevermore.

PRAYER: Father, You sent Jesus so that Ican have and enjoy my life to the full until it overflows. Thats the kind oflife I desire. Thank You for sending me Your Spirit to show me the pathto a genuinely maximised life and to maximise my influence here for You.


40/40

SUNDAY SERVICES:

TurningPoint Church1785 South Gippsland Hwy,

(Opposite Devon Road)Cranbourne

10:30am Service6:00pm Service

TurningPoint Koo Wee Rup

335 Rossiter RoadKoo Wee Rup10:30am Service

TurningPoint Lyndhurst DistrictChurch

Lynbrook Childrens Centre

25i River Redgum PlaceLynbrook10:30am Service

HEAD OFFICE:PO Box 5422

Cranbourne VIC 3977

Email [email protected]

influence 40 reading plan

Documents