October 6, 2010

• Establishing the Atmosphere

  My Uncle Steve attended college in North Carolina near the home of the great evangelist Billy Graham back in the early 70′s.  He shared that sometimes Billy Graham would come by the church where my uncle would be worshipping and that my uncle could always tell when Billy Graham entered without even turning around.  He said the anointing upon Billy Graham was so strong that it could be felt all around the room.  Without saying a word or bringing any attention to himself, Billy Graham would establish the atmosphere of worship in the place.  He carried such authority that God used him to break down walls in communist countries and bring salvation to countless lives around the world.

  God has been teaching me more about establishing the atmosphere around me, and not just in terms of worship or praise.  While teaching my boys basketball at the children’s home I noticed that sometimes one of the boys would come to practice in a bad mood, angry, or irritated.  And when I wasn’t aware or was passive about it, that mood/spirit would begin to affect the rest of us.  Soon there would be arguing, fighting, and frustration.  And I would catch myself falling into it as well.  I realized I needed to set the atmosphere.  Because God’s Spirit lives within me and because His love is greater than all other things, I am able to take authority over whatever other emotion/spirit might be around me.  So when I run the practices I make an effort to establish an atmosphere of love, joy, and acceptance.  And soon that begins to affect the other boys and all anger, frustration, and negativity is snuffed out.  I have to establish the atmosphere!

  And I understand it is the same for where you live, where you work, your family, and every other aspect of your life.  We can either be oblivious and let others set the tone or atmosphere around us, or we can make a concentrated effort and establish God’s authority and love around us.  I pray I can get to the point to Billy Graham where it becomes natural for the glory to be around me and for others to be pulled into God’s presence by me simply being in the room.  May God’s throne be established wherever we are and wherever we are to go!

  Oh, and this song has been growing on me.  Hope you enjoy it.  God bless!

  • 10:32 am
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