I was inspired when I was studying the book of
Esther, to speak about influence.
influence
ˈɪnflʊəns/
noun
1.
1.
the
capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behaviour of
someone or something, or the effect itself.
"the
influence of television violence"
synonyms:
|
effect, impact; More
|
So taken from Google,
influence is the ability to have an effect on someone or something. Queen
Esther was a beautiful woman, who carried herself graciously and respectfully,
when making decisions. From what I studied, she was about justice and making
the right decision. The Jews were under attack, Haman did not like Mordecai at
all, because he did not bow before or reverence him as the King, Because of
this, he made a law that all the Jews should be killed. Extreme huh! It feels
like in the Old Testament, there was so much killing over small things!!! But
at the time, to them I guess they were
major things.
Anyway, due to Haman’s ill
choices against the Jews, Queen Esther was able to reverse this law. In the end
Haman and his people were killed. I guess this is reminiscent of when people
try to do evil to you and it goes back to sender, because God always protects
you.
Esther 9:25 But when the plot came to the king's
attention, he issued written orders that the evil scheme Haman had devised
against the Jews should come back onto his own head, and that he and his sons
should be impaled on poles.
How do we gain influence to
bring people to Christ? I often find myself wanting people to watch my Faith
related videos more. Why are the views so low compared to my other videos?
Jesus gently reminds me not to focus on all that and carry on as I have been
instructed to do. We want the platform and influence, but are not willing or
lose faith too quickly to ride out the journey, trusting God along the way.
I believe that Jesus did it
the best. He didn’t come to be served, but he came to serve. He never stopped
serving. He states that if we want to be first we must be last (Matthew 20:16).
He stuck to what He said, was always consistent and full of love. In the end,
what he spoke came to light and he rose again. Hallelujah!
So are we willing to walk the
way Jesus did? Not doing things solely for us, simply to gain influence, but
understanding the bigger picture? I truly believe that when we serve and are
the best at our craft (whatever it may be) when we are intentional, loving,
forgiving and use Jesus’ teachings in our everyday lives, not limited to family
life but taking this out into our workplaces, businesses, schools, whichever
platform God has placed us in, we are not only successful but take the glory of
God with us. People see that something is different about us and that this
Jesus thing is really active and alive.
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active.
Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and
spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
I challenge you (and myself)
to keep growing in the Lord in this area. Keep influencing others by your
character. Right where God has placed you not comparing to others. Yes, run
your race (Hebrews 12:2). And no, it won’t be easy when you are doing God’s
work. The devil will use people to attack you, mock you and put you down to
make you look like a fool. Even those close to you like family! But Jesus went
through this and more, so how much more us? Do not be discouraged or surprised but
rather, stand on and meditate on the work of the Lord. He never changes, so
stand in that truth with authority. Know that He who has fully equipped you,
will never leave nor forsake you. And all these trials, will only make you
great, building your character in Christ!
James 1:2-4 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever
you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces
perseverance.4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and
complete, not lacking anything.
Hebrews
13:5 Keep your lives free from the love
of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I
leave you; never will I forsake you.”
I love you guys, keep
fighting the enemy and sticking with Jesus. He is so worth it.
Outfit details
Shoes - New Look: http://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/footwear/shoes/wide-fit-nude-pink-patent-pointed-sling-back-heels/p/526050714?comp=Search
Bag - New Look: http://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/accessories/bags/orange-drawstring-ring-handle-tote-bag/p/511971780?comp=Search
Dress - Rosewe:https://www.rosewe.com/army-green-bowknot-embellished-peplum-waist-dress-g170208.html
Outfit details
Shoes - New Look: http://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/footwear/shoes/wide-fit-nude-pink-patent-pointed-sling-back-heels/p/526050714?comp=Search
Bag - New Look: http://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/accessories/bags/orange-drawstring-ring-handle-tote-bag/p/511971780?comp=Search
Dress - Rosewe:https://www.rosewe.com/army-green-bowknot-embellished-peplum-waist-dress-g170208.html
