August 2

The Wise Use Of Influence

You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they set it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. — Matt 5:14-16 BSB

Influence is the way our soul flows out to inspire, help, or even harm others. No one lives or dies to themselves alone. Just as every grain of sand on the shore impacts the position of the others, our character influences those around us more deeply than our words do. Likely, waves of spiritual influence continually go out from our innermost being, making it easier or harder for others to reach their highest potential.

The first circle of influence is our friends. Our words can be sweet or bitter, but whatever we say or do, we must be completely honest and faithful (Proverbs 27:6-9). True sincerity is being without the "wax" used to cover imperfections, as carpenters do to make flawed wood appear sound. It’s the pure and honest soul that has the most profound impact on others. Don’t be selfish in your friendships—give more than you expect to receive. Love is a delicate plant that requires care. We shouldn’t expect it to grow without light and truth.

The second circle is our wider community. The world may not value the traits Jesus taught in the Beatitudes, and might still reproach and persecute us, but we must continue to bless others by living holy lives. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we respond with grace. We must be salt to those who oppose us and light to those who defame us. Consistent love and patient, prayerful influence ultimately win.

We are called to be salt, meaning our lives are meant to stop the spread of evil. We are also called to be light, meaning we should shine brightly for others. Inconsistency and fear can hide our light. Let’s cast aside these hindrances so that the light within us shines brightly in a dark world.

Prayer

Grant, we ask You, O God, that our conduct would reflect the Gospel of Christ. May Christ’s fragrance be in our influence, His light in our faces, and His love in our hearts. Amen.