Our Influence

All of us probably influence many more people in our lifetime than we realize. We might think we affect our family and close friends, but our circle of influence is much bigger than that. It can include everyone we meet. The question is whether our influence is a good or bad one, and, if we're a Christian, how are we representing Christ?

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven (Matthew 5:16).

The key to having a positive influence is to put Christ in the center of your circle. If He is the center of your life, then you will have a wonderful influence of all you come into contact with. Too many Christians grow lukewarm or just go through the motions without their heart being in it. This is what the Pharisees did in Jesus' day. They carefully kept the law and outwardly showed how righteous they were, but their hearts were hard. They didn't really love God more than they loved themselves or others as much.

For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:20).

Our world today could definitely use more Christian influence. I remember when I was once interviewed for a public school teaching position. The principal made the comment that he liked to hire Christians, because his school ran more smoothly when he did. Isn't that a good testimony to the kind of influence we can have? What are you doing to influence the world for Christ?

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