Influence is a little like gasoline. When you leverage your
influence, it causes things to really kick in gear. It will accelerate the
causes, goals, and tasks it’s used for so be sure you’re pouring gas on the
right thing and are pointed in the right direction.
Others will ask you to use your influence for their benefit.
Sometimes this will line up with your mission and sometimes it won’t. That’s
why it’s so important to know your calling and how God wants to use you. Once
you’ve figured out calling, leverage your influence for that purpose but be
cautious of who and what you align with to avoid getting caught up in something
that is not on mission. (See Nehemiah 6 for a great example of doing this well)
Aiming your influence can be a little like a hound dog
chasing a rabbit. If he keeps at it, he’s got a shot at eventually catching the
rabbit. But, if he starts trying to chase two or three rabbits, he’s just going
to wear himself out and probably not catch anything. Know your rabbit and stay
on track.
You may strongly disagree with someone’s views on a topic but
it’s important to consider whether arguing with them will serve God’s
purpose for your life. Holding back from response does not equate to apathy,
it’s a matter of choosing where to use your influence. By not getting pulled
into a heated off-mission debate, you maintain the ability to speak into the other
person’s life and engage in a way that will lead them closer to Jesus.
How will you use your influence today?
In pursuit of His best,
Andrew