Can a city be changed?
“All the people who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.” (emphasis mine Acts 9:35)
Can an entire city be converted for Jesus Christ? The Book of Acts reveals that there was at least one city. To see a city transformed, four key ingredients are needed among its Christian leaders. These include prayer, humility, unity and knowledge of God’s ways.
Prayer
In each city where conversion has taken place, believers have come together to pray for their city. Prayer changes the spiritual atmosphere of a city. Some of the main areas of influence that should be the focus of our prayers include churches and businesses; legal, political, educational and medical fields; and media/entertainment industries. Workplace leaders must strategically align with middlemen to make an impact on their city.
Politeness
God uses men and women who understand that they need each other and who do not seek glory for their work. “He guides the humble and teaches them His way” (Psalm 25:9). The workplace leaders God is using today don’t care about being in the spotlight.
Unity
Jesus said, “Let them be brought into perfect unity so that the world may know that you sent me and have loved them, just as you have loved me” (John 17:23). God calls each of us individually and corporately to represent Christ in the world, but our independence, pride, and ego often keep us from being integrated into Christ’s purposes.
knowledge of god’s ways
Sometimes leaders may proceed in guesswork rather than faith rooted in the knowledge of God’s ways. Such was the case with David, who wanted to bring the Ark of the Covenant to the city of Jerusalem. He was zealous for God and celebrated when He brought the ark into the city. However, as God required, the ark was being carried into the city on a cart rather than being carried on poles by priests. When a man named Uzza reached out to grab the ark when the oxen faltered, God immediately killed him. David was devastated. He had no knowledge of God’s ways.
Do you want to see your city changing? Make sure the three elements of prayer, unity, and knowledge of God’s ways are present in your leadership team.
