Cornerstone

Ex 32:30-35 (32)

Great Christian leaders are people who know the power of prayer. Those who have been able to motivate intercessors are doubly blessed. Charles G. Finney, one of the most effective evangelists of the last century, met Daniel Nash early in his ministry. Father Nash, as he was called, became Finney’s personal intercessor and would frequently travel with him and pray while Finney preached.

John Hyde, missionary, and known as praying John Hyde had a dual ministry. He interceded for the lost but also had the gift of personal evangelism. What a combination! He would pray for a certain number of people to be saved. That day he would go out to lead them to the Lord.

One of Billy Graham’s prayer partners is Pearl Goode. Graham attributes much of the evangelistic power of his ministry to this faithful intercessor. Face it, Graham is not a very good preacher. Is he an effective preacher? Do many people respond to his invitations? Why are the simple sermons that Billy Graham preaches so powerful? He has an intercessor behind the scenes.

Oh that God would give every pastor, missionary, Christian leader, Bible school administrator and teacher their own personal intercessor! No question exists in the minds of those who have experienced it; committed, faithful intercession brings increased spiritual power to Christian ministries.

Dr. Gayle Woods

Acts 7:35-39 (36)

I was staring at my computer screen when I heard a persistent alarm bell. School had just begun a few weeks before at Kansas City College and Bible School. This was my first year to work at the school. Rising from my desk I stepped out of the door to see what was taking place. Here they came, teachers and children poured out of the classroom buildings. We were having a fire drill.

As I considered this I was struck with the efficiency of the operation. The school could be emptied in a matter of a few seconds without anybody running, pushing or getting excited. How was it done? By instruction, preparation, and example. The teachers were instructed concerning procedure. They passed this on to their students and then led them calmly and authoritatively out of the building when the alarm was sounded.

In like manner God delegates responsibilities to His people. He expects us to be leaders. We are to lead people to Him. What we know or don=t know about the Bible and Jesus Christ will have an effect on the people we speak to. Our example should always be a high priority. People watch our lives and often decide for our against Christ by what they see in us.

Dr. Gayle Woods