New Reminders: Influence

Influence is the power to have an impact on someone or something.  Every person, whether they realize it or not, has the ability to influence others through actions, words, or lifestyle choices.  A person's actions and words can impact others, either positively or negatively.  When a person influences someone else, they are changing that person in an indirect but important way.  Sometimes a person, who influences another, doesn't know what, if any, that effect will be.  They might even be using their influence to benefit themselves.  For example, a famous actor or sports personality might agree to be a spokesperson for a certain organization or product.  His or her motivation is mostly to get paid to promote it, not necessarily to influence any particular individuals to support or buy it.  He or she might be using their influence, as a celebrity, to enrich him or herself.  Regardless of the motivation, that person is likely to influence many people.

While you and I might not have that kind of power to influence, we may never know how many people we might be influencing just by what we say or do.  We do not live in a bubble!  We are seen and heard wherever we are.  We might be influencing others unaware.  Fellow workers, worshipers, our siblings and our children see and hear us.  As Christians, we need to remember that we represent Jesus to the world.  We are to be role models for everyone we encounter.

The Bible emphasizes the importance of being a positive influence by encouraging us to think about true, noble, just, and pure things, to let our lights shine before others, and to strive for good works.  It also highlights the power of positive associations and the dangers of being influenced by negative company. Philippians 4:8 encourages us to "think about whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, commendable, and praiseworthy". This verse emphasizes the importance of cultivating positive and virtuous thoughts as a foundation for positive actions. Matthew 5:16 states: "Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven".  This verse encourages us to live lives that demonstrate our faith and inspire others through our actions.  Proverbs 13:20 states: "He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm".  This verse highlights the importance of choosing positive influences and avoiding associations with those who are likely to lead to negative outcomes.  We must remember to let Jesus be our most-prominent influence. 

“In 1860, a lighthouse was completed several hours south of Sydney, Australia.  It was a dangerous coastline so the proposal for this beacon was made years earlier.  High above the cliffs of Jervis Bay [but it provided erroneous influence].  Due to an incorrect map, the lighthouse was built 5 miles from the designated site.  By the time it was replaced with a lighthouse on the correct site, two dozen shipwrecks occurred and a number of lives were lost.  Our influence, like a lighthouse, can point people in the right, or wrong, direction. Christ Above All, David Jeremiah, 2022, p.75. Jesus said: “I have come as light into the world, so that everyone who believes in Me may not remain in darkness.” John 12:46. We must shine forth the light of Jesus so that it guides others into the safe harbor of God’s love and grace.