Influence

I first noticed this word many years ago when I was a teenager. My parents told me that I would be known by the people I hang out with. There were some “characters” in my circle of friends. For the most part, my friends were good kids. There were some who were more popular than others. There were some who were more talented than others in sports and such. I didn’t realize then just how important it is to pay close attention to the people you hang with. Fast forward to today and I remember having that same conversation with my kids who are now all in their 20’s or 30’s. I believe that it is still true today – I should be careful who I spend time with. The people I work with, serve with, worship with or hang out with, all have influence on me. The bigger question for me is am I being and influence upon them. Influence is the “action or process of producing effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of others or another person” (dictionary.com).

Jeremiah was in a tough spot. He was God’s spokesman and he was pronouncing destruction for Judah and Israel. He was hated by both sides because of the message he was tasked with delivering. His end looks to be coming soon as well. He speaks to the Lord and asked for more time and the Lord responds to him. Check this out….

¹⁹ This is how the Lord responds:

“If you return to me, I will restore you
    so you can continue to serve me.
If you speak good words rather than worthless ones,
    you will be my spokesman.
You must influence them;
    do not let them influence you!
²⁰ They will fight against you like an attacking army,
    but I will make you as secure as a fortified wall of bronze.
They will not conquer you,
    for I am with you to protect and rescue you.
    I, the Lord, have spoken!(Jeremiah 15:19-20 NLT)

There are tons of people who have influence upon me. From my spouse to someone I might meet for the first time today – people have some level of influence upon me.

God’s Word, Family, Church family, Work family, college friends, authors, teachers – these all have influence upon me.

Influence can be subtle, super quiet or loud.

Influence can be positive or negative. I need to be alert to the things that are influencing me today and every day. I should also be very intentional about the people with whom I have influence upon. I should walk in wisdom and discernment on both sides of influence.

Pressing On!

Dwayne