038.The Partnership and Power of Perpetual Persuasion

Persuasive people are powerful people.

But they don’t just sit around waiting for the fairy of persuasion to sprinkle her magic dust on them. So how do they become so? And more to the point, how do we learn the art of persuasion?

Begin by observing one who is.

Let’s meet a unique and intersting Warrior. She is different than many we’ve walked with before. She doesn’t reveal many weaknesses or struggles, although I’m sure she’s suffered them. Otherwise, how could she have become so strong, so determined… so persuasive.

She is Lydia of Philippi.

Yes, the merchant dealer of purple cloth from the Bible. Many have heard of her because she was the first Christian convert in Europe. And because of the depth of her generosity, her home was also the birthplace of the first Christian Church in Europe.

Today, you can visit the memorial Church of Lydia, if you are in Philippi. But standing in that church won’t necessarily make you like her. Rather, we need to open our hearts to humbly listen to what God has to reveal about the power of perpetual persuasion. Because Lydia only appears in 2 verses of the Bible. And yet we can know her to be hard working, obedient, discerning and kind. We recognize her as humble, persistent, blameless, and pure.

All because of her connection to Paul’s ministry and the faith which when partnered… propelled Christianity into new nations.

Just imagine what it can do when realized in your life.

Enjoy the podcast on the media player below, or on your favorite podcasting app.
If you found life of Lydia inspiring, you are likely to also enjoy the life of the Shunemite Woman. It is detailed in Episodes 026:Weigh Your Words to Lighten Your Load, 027:How to Get Past My Problem and Run Toward My Purpose, and 028:What is Righteousness and Why Would I Want It?