It only takes one person to start an outbreak.
Weeks ago, I started to watch a series called, “Pandemic.” Out of all that was shared, one of the most interesting ideas was that it only took one person to spread a disease. The documentary shared the various ways that diseases spread and way science seeks to stop it. However, the fact remained without proper precautions an outbreak could occur at any time. Yet, as only the Holy Spirit can do, He reminded me the same is true when it comes to matters of the spirit.
It only takes one person to start an outbreak.
I started to ask myself questions.
What if Christians grasped this idea?
What would happen if we realized the power of one person being different?
What would happen if we started a new thing that was spread so quickly, everyone around us was affected?
I saw this idea come alive first hand within our new church plant, Enlighten Church. A church member named Crystal decided to gather a few women in her home to throw a “juice party.” As one who’s never experienced such a thing, I must admit I didn’t know what to expect when I received the invitation. When I arrived, Mrs. Crystal had a counter of fresh fruit and vegetables on the counter. Apples, oranges, celery, beets, lemons were all a part of the moment. One by one, she started to place each of the fruits and veggies in different combinations into her juicer. With each combination she shared the benefits and how it had changed her life. Before we knew it, we were begging for more of the handmade juices. Even more so, within days each of us had our very own juicer. In the last few weeks, many of us have lost weight and been healthier than ever just from attending this one event.
I was reminded, it only takes one person to start an outbreak.
Now, so many in our church are empowering others to take control of their health and be different. The culture of nutrition in our church by one person’s obedience and willing to share the truth. What if, Christians considered this in their daily walk? What if we decided to take a bold step to be the change? What if we decided to start an outbreak within our communities, churches, and cities to tell people about God?
I believe the Lord is calling us to be like Peter in the Bible. His choice to say “Yes” and minister the Gospel started an outbreak within the new church. In one sermon alone, over 3,000 were saved. The message of Jesus Christ was and still is contagious. The message of His love draws people to new life. The question is are we willing to step out of the comfortable places to expose the world around us to His message.
My friends, we must use what’s in our hands to start an outbreak. For my friend Crystal, it was her love for health. For my friend Erika, she uses her makeup business to share the message of the Lord. For me, I write. Another will minster to their colleagues in the market place. Another will start an outbreak by sharing the gospel with their children. In other words, God wants to use our unique gifts and talents to start a new thing.
So I say to you today…
Artist, it’s time to breakout!
Teacher it’s time to breakout!
Activist, it’s time to breakout!
Fashion designer, it’s time to breakout!
Creative, it’s time to breakout!
It’s time to be willing to be different for our families and community. Let the Lord shine through you. Be willing to break out of your shell. My prayer is that you no longer fear to doing the will of the Father. Your willingness to do so can be what changes the very culture around you. There is victory in your yes!
Remember, it only takes one person to start an outbreak!
With many other words he testified, and he urged them, “Be saved from this corrupt generation.” Those who embraced his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to the believers that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs. Acts 2:40-44
Dear Lord,
I ask that you show me how to spread your Word. Help me be unafraid to step out and do what you are calling me to do. Let my life be a testimony of your goodness. Use my story to draw people unto you. Let it be all about you. In Jesus name. Amen.
For more on living a life of complete Victory, I invite you to purchase my latest book, The Victory Walk: A 21 Day Devotional by clicking here.