Hello, everybody! Happy Thursday! A couple of Shabbats (Sabbaths) ago, we had a visiting pastor address our congregation and he spoke on the subject of influence. He reminded us of how much a person has the ability to greatly affect their families, their friends, those around them, and even the generations after them, both positively or negatively!
If you've ever seen the movie "Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story", you will already know the huge role Dr. Carson's mother played in spurring her two sons on to success. Without his mother pushing him to achieve academically and not accept failure, Dr. Carson may still today have the opinion of himself that he did as a young boy: that he was a dumb student. His mother's influence in his life had a great impact- he not only excelled in his schoolwork, but he became an incredible neurosurgeon! On the flip side, we all have heard stories of the terrible damage a bully can do to influence a fellow student/acquaintance that he/she is dumb, and ugly! If a bully can make someone feel utterly miserable by spewing lies about their lack of value as a person, how much more so could we make someone feel valued and inspired by encouraging them with God's love?
It is so important to be intentional in your words and actions as you never may know the stories they may tell in another's life.
Second Corinthians 5:20 says, 'Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.' You are an example to others of what a son or daughter of God looks and acts like and God can use you to show others His character. So temper your influence with discretion as to what you are presenting to others as good and acceptable; it does make a difference. Haven't you ever found yourself saying, 'Well, so and so does this, so it must be ok.' Your friends, family, and yes, even the cashier at Walmart is watching you and taking notes.
There are many people who have left and will continue to leave footprints behind on each of your "paths"; inspiring you one way or another. We have some very special friends that our family has known for 30 years and I think every single member in our family can speak of ways they've impacted our lives. I've been personally inspired in how hopeful and positive their outlook on life is. They truly know how to bestow God's grace and compassion on people! Listening to them speak has really revealed to me how much I gripe about others instead of forgiving and loving them despite the circumstances. This is something I want to change in my own life.
So, who are you influencing in your life? How do you use this influence? Could you be missing an opportunity to influence those around you?
I am an Aunt to eight nieces and nephews and this Pastor's sermon has influenced me to start being more intentionally involved in each of their lives. I want to encourage them to seek a relationship with the Lord, and recognize Him as their loving Heavenly Father. I want to make wonderful memories when we are together, and not just sit by and miss the opportunities to be together and speak into their lives.
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Well, let me know if you have any ideas on how we can better use our influence in the day to day. And tell us what's been going on with you lately! Read any good books? Have any of you watched the new Masterpiece "Sanditon"? So far, I've heard one friend say it's great, and another saying it's not so great! :) So it's up to you to break the tie! :)
See you next time,
Katherine
