My husbands Nanny was this type of women, and it so impacted her family and friends, and has inspired us to do the same. This world is filled with ways of making ourselves great but the secret, the power lies in being hidden in the rock and pouring out our hearts on behalf of those we care for and those we despise. I feel so powerless so many days to do anything that will change this fallen world, but that is a lie planted like a black seed in the fertile soil of my mind ready to take root in my heart.

There IS something we can do, but when we say it, when we do it, sometimes it seems so meaningless so useless. When you see a life devoted to Jesus in quiet love and a life that responds to that love through constant prayer, you know that over time like slow soaking rain it will bear much much fruit.

Never give up because even if you don't feel that prayer is doing anything it is doing something in your heart. Knitting you closer, one stitch at a time, to the very heart of Christ.



Joni and Friends Daily Devotional
July 24, 2011
Women of Influence

Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
--Matthew 5:15

More than 200 years ago, two average, rather frail women became concerned by the spiritual state of their small church in a little Minnesota town. They decided to meet together regularly, and pray for God to work. A short time later, their pastor noticed that his heart seemed more open to the word of God-and that his preaching had fresh power. Several families in the congregation fell under conviction, and confessed their sin. Other families began witnessing to their neighbors. Before long, people were traveling from far away to become involved in the many Bible studies springing up in the church community. Soon, wholesale spiritual revival broke out, and God's Spirit moved powerfully across the state of Minnesota, changing the landscape for decades to come.

These two women never wrote a book or traveled to other cities to tell their story. They didn't even want their names known! But they were powerful women of influence, substantial saints who let God exercise spiritual clout through them. And you are no different. God is not looking for famous individuals who can speak eloquently before thousands. God is looking for someone like you. Daniel 11:32 says: "The people who know their God will display strength and take action."

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The passage doesn't say you have to join the talk show circuit or do noteworthy things. If you know God, display his strength and take action! It may be as simple as taking a meal to family with a sick mom, leading a Bible study, or just meeting with a few friends to pray. First make sure you know him, know his heart. And then just do what he says!

Father God, I do know you and love you. Empower me by your Holy Spirit and show me how to take action-wherever and however you lead-to advance your kingdom.

Blessings,

Joni and Friends
www.joniandfriends.org