Being Influential

 

Are basic manners, such as saying “please” and “thank-you,” old fashion and a thing of the past? Why is it that adults have a tough time expressing appreciation for things they have been given? Zig Ziglar, known as “America’s motivator,” has some interesting thoughts: “Of all the things a parent can teach a child, manners rates very close to the top to the “must teach” list. Number one; when a child is taught, from the time he or she can talk, to say “thank-you” you are teaching that child thankfulness. Number two; the insertion of the word “please” in a request changes the child from a demanding person to one who accepts the fact that when they ask a favor or make a request, the parent has no automatic obligation to respond favorably to that request. Response to “please” is much better than “get this for me” demand type of approach. The child must be taught the idea that they must first serve before they can earn the right to command.”

We all have influence over others on whom we come in contact every day. As a husband, parent, grand-parent, church leader I have influence over different people in my work every day. I must take this task seriously. I must think of the words that I use and the actions that I exhibit because there are others watching. The words and actions that I use have an influence over those around me. Who do you have influence over? Who’s watching you?

Our influence must be one that influences people to see and obey Christ. Our Christian influence should be leading people to God. The top priority in our life should be to get to Heaven, and to help as many others as possible to get to Heaven as well. One way we can do that is through our Godly influence. The Christian influence we display should always reflect good and not evil. We must be of the work of the church and not of the world. The world is full of evil. We need to distinguish ourselves from the world and stand out against what is evil in the world. Our Christian influence should be seen through our words, actions, and friends. The words that we say can have a major impact on those we speak to. Mean, discouraging, and hateful words said to others is not going to bring them to God. Lying, cheating, rudeness, disrespectful behavior will not encourage one to obey the Gospel. Too often we become who we hang around. We must be watchful of the words we say, actions we do, and the company we keep. Our Christian influence should be obvious for everyone to see. Here is where we need to stand out. Not standing out in a “I’m better than everyone else” manner. But everyone you come in contact with should be able to tell by your life that you are a follower of Christ, you have committed your life to God and are going to live life serving Him. Our influence is especially important because it can have an effect on our salvation. If one is not influencing for Christ, then you will be tossed out just as the salt that lost its saltiness (Matthew 5:13). Is your influence for Christ or the world?

[Ephesians 4:32] “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Being kind, courteous, and grateful will never go out of style or become old fashioned. Let us strive to be gracious, respectful, and considerate to all with whom we come in contact. And may we always count our blessings – being grateful to our Heavenly Father for His love and mercy.

(1 Thessalonians 5:14-18) “Now we exhort you brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” As your life becomes more Godly, you influence others to become Godly.