Influencers

“Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (I Timothy 4:12, ESV)

If you are a social media follower, you may have noticed the number of “influencers” trying to get your attention as they share recommendations on various products and services. What is an influencer, you ask? According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, an influencer is:

“One who exerts influence : a person who inspires or guides the actions of others. Often, specifically : a person who is able to generate interest in something (such as a consumer product) by posting about it on social media.”

The influencer’s goal is to create trends and to encourage their followers to buy the products they promote. The amount of money top influencers may pull in by their endorsements can reach into the millions.

I have known some powerful influencers in my life, but theirs was a different kind of influence. In fact, many never realized they were an influencer. They were just humble people living a life of integrity and commitment to the Lord day by day.  Their lives inspired and challenged me, and others, to follow their example. Such people quietly make a difference in their world.

In I Timothy 4:12, Paul instructed Timothy to be an example ‘in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” Paul was telling Timothy to lead—to influence—by example. This verse also provides us with a good starting point in influencing others for the Lord. Consistence and integrity in these areas will inspire others to do the same.

Are we reproducing ourselves in the lives of others? Do we reflect Christ in all parts of our lives? Using the speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity test, what kind of example do we show . . .

• in our home?
• on the job?
• in our community?
• within the body of Christ?
• when no one even knows who we are?

As a Jesus influencer, our actions must never be motivated by pride, selfish motive, or personal gain. Our every action should glorify the Lord and point others toward Him. “Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade others” (II Corinthians 5:11, ESV).

A true influencer is a combination of nurturer, encourager, mentor, and a teacher. They may never realize the influence they have on others. They simply live a consistent Christian life before friends, family, coworkers, and others they encounter as they go about their day.

• “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, ESV)
• “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17, ESV)
• “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.” (Hebrews 10:24, ESV)

Whose life will you touch today by letting the love of God shine through your life? 

Lord, help me to live my life in a way that honors You and points others to You. May my words and actions lift up and encourage rather than tear down and destroy. I want to always represent You well to my world so that others will see the joy in serving You.