The explosion of our use of social media has brought us a new ‘occupation.’ A person can now become an ‘influencer.’ In the old days we called them ‘sales professionals’, I think. In case you do not know, an influencer is a person who enjoyed a large following on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube. She produces media designed to influence’ her audience's purchasing decisions, promoting products and services, basing content around her own experience with the product that is featured.
This relatively new method of marketing is not actually all that new. What has changed is the reach of an individual through social media. The Avon lady of the past who ‘influenced’ her neighborhood and family is now replaced by the person whose skill gathers the attention of thousands from far and wide.
So, are you an influencer? You may not think so, but all are. Our lives are interconnected with others; our words and values affect others. What kind of influence are YOU?
My Christian friend, Jesus calls us to become people who change our world! When we trust Him and embrace the call to ‘come and follow Me’ that He gives to us, like it or not, we become His representatives in this world.
Here is how He describes our lives - “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” - Jesus (Matthew 5)
In decades of Christian ministry, I have been part of the process of hundreds of people coming to faith in the Living Lord. A few have done so because of something they read or because of a television program. A few more have been drawn to a local church and, hearing the good news of Jesus’ love, respond in faith. Most, however, are led by a friend, often influenced first, not by words, but by the love, peace, and/or purpose they observe in the life of another.
When we who claim to follow Jesus live markedly different lives,
we WILL invariably influence our circle of friends.
When we are loving and care for even those who are hard to love, our actions
are notable.
When we find a greater reason to live than wealth or pleasure, satisfied by
knowing Christ, the contrast will be inescapable.
When we are humble, refusing to boast about ourselves and our accomplishments,
always giving thanks, the difference from the culture around us cannot be
ignored.
When I think of the responsibility of representing Jesus in my world, it can feel overwhelming. I know my own failures and sins. I know my tendency to wander from the Way. How about you?
Pray that the Spirit of God Who lives in you through faith to change you inside out. Trust His grace. Invite His Presence to flow into you, like a river, and then from you as a refreshing stream.
I am greatly encouraged by the words of Paul. He reminds us that we are God’s own and that the ‘influence’ we bring to our world is NOT the result of our own charisma, attractiveness, or intellect. Think deeply on these words then pray to bring real, lasting positive change to those in your circle.
“Thanks be to
God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses
us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of Him everywhere. For
we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved
and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings
death; to the other, an aroma that brings life.
And who is equal to such a task? (the implied answer,
none of us on our own, but all of us through the Spirit) Unlike so many, we
do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ
we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.”
(2 Corinthians 2)
Be the salt that flavors and preserves.
Be the light that brings the color and beauty to the dark world.
Be the fragrance of Jesus to others.
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