By Knowing Him
A Source of Inspiration
Henry Martin
08/30/2009
Soon after my wife and I were baptized, we were introduced to ASI. Among the many attractive characteristics of the organization were the camaraderie and fellowship we saw among its members. To this day, 35 years later, the ASI members I meet are spirit-filled Christians, dedicated to sharing Christ wherever they are.
In our fast-paced society and uncertain times, it is so important that we remain close-knit, connected and praying regularly for one another. We must be ready resources for fellow Christians as well as for our clients, customers, patients and neighbors.
The Bible is filled with texts encouraging us to act as “salt and light” in our churches. Or, as Paul put it, to “equip the saints for the work of service, to build up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12). Sound like ASI?
There is even biblical advice for us in these tough economic times. Allow me to put a modern interpretation to Habakkuk 3:17,18: “Though the fig tree does not blossom, and there are no grapes on the vine, nor olives on the tree; when the fields produce no food, and there are no livestock in the stalls, nor any inventory in our showroom, nor cars on the lot, yet I will exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.”
Faithful ASI members, whatever their vocation, can take such inspiration from that verse! Other community members may inquire how it is that your business prospers or survives, when others are suffering so much. Or why, even if you’re struggling, you remain joyful. These are opportunities to lovingly share your faith.
Hebrews 10: 23-25 reads, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together as is the manner of some, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the day approaching.”
Along the same theme, Ellen White writes, “Not more surely is the place prepared for us in the heavenly mansions than is the special place designated on earth where we are to work for God” (COL pg. 326). ASI members are people committed to this message, to encouraging one another and serving the Lord. Let me share an example:
I well remember when ASI members Tom and Vi Zapara sold their 1,500-employee business, Zee Medical Products. It was even reported in the Wall Street Journal. After the sale was complete, Tom said, “I sure want to be broke when the Lord comes back.”
That was both an unexpected and immense source of encouragement to me. Together, my wife and I began to pray for God to show us when the time was right to sell our 55-year-old family enterprise and enter into full time service. Within two years an opportunity developed to leave our career in the automobile business and begin work with a supporting ministry.
I firmly believe that when we place everything on the altar before God, He will reveal how our talents and possessions can be used for His purpose. I encourage you to focus on Christ, not on the many things of this world. You too can be an inspiration to someone, just as Tom Zapara was to me.
