A first-time attendee reported that he decided to attend a branch of our church because of the positive influence of one of our members, who demonstrated integrity, kindness, and a strong work ethic. She was different from others. This experience showed me that our individual actions can have a profound impact on others, and that influence is not that difficult to exert.
Friend, influence is not that difficult. I read somewhere the other day that the most introverted person influences an average of about 6,000 people in his or her lifetime. That report got me thinking about the power of influence. It also helped me to begin to take my influence seriously. It is not first about my temperament. It is about my attitude and disposition towards life (1 Timothy 4:12).
What is your attitude and disposition towards life (Proverbs 23:7)? This is a major determinant of influence. If your attitude is wrong, your influence would be wrong even if you are gifted or skilful. Like our church member, when you realise that someone somewhere is taking a cue from the way you carry yourself and do your work, you would not take those casually (Philemon 1:6).
Influence is loudest when it is silent (2 Samuel 5:1-4). There are people you would not talk to or meet one on one. But they are observing you. They are patterning their lives, work, and enterprise after yours. This is why you need to make sure you are a correct pattern. You need to show yourself a pattern of good works (Titus 2:7).
Beyond just speaking good words, you need to do good work (Matthew 5:16). This is how your life can shine for all to see. Remember that Jesus also went about doing good. His influence was feelable by all. Even the unbelievers were not left behind (Acts 10:38). Like salt in a meal, you don’t need to be big or conspicuous to change the colour and taste of a place. You only need to be relevant.
How relevant are you? Christians must not be heaven-bound but earthly-useless. As we plan to make heaven, let’s not forget to make earth (Matthew 5:5). Let’s not forget to bring the influence of heaven to bear on on the earth. Let our workplaces, families, communities, and the world at large see God, His character, and His excellence in us.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria