Influence

Many people have forever influenced me along my journey of life. There are none more significant than my parents, Loyde & Deloris Hicks. They poured into me since I was a young kid about what was right and what was wrong.  They introduced me to God and His Son, Jesus.  They have shaped my personality and helped me choose biblical values to direct the path of my life.  I will forever be indebted to them. I am also indebted to my grandparents who were also strong Christians. My Aunt Helen was also a powerful influencer in my life.  I think the list could go on and on!

Solomon speaks to the importance of influence in Proverbs 23. Check this out…

 22 Listen to your father, who gave you life,

       and do not forget your mother when she is old.

 23 Learn the truth and never reject it.

       Get wisdom, self-control, and understanding.

 24 The father of a good child is very happy;

       parents who have wise children are glad because of them.

 25 Make your father and mother happy;

       give your mother a reason to be glad. (Proverbs 23:22-25 NCV)

 I first became a parent some 26 years ago and there is much truth inside these few verses.  I sure hope I’ve made my parents proud by my behavior and my choices.  I know that as I’ve raised my children to make good choices, they have blessed me by inviting the Lord into their lives and they’ve let Him lead them.  I am a blessed Dad and I’m privileged to still have my parents around to seek council and to bless them for blessing me.  My children are a blessing to me and even to my parents as well.

 I want to continue to be a good Godly influencer wherever I find myself. I know me and I know of my failures. I want to encourage my children at every opportunity to choose the good way – God’s way in all their life choices.

I’m so thankful for the influence of Godly parents and grandparents.

 Pressing On!

Dwayne