Our lives influence others.

Influence is “the capacity or power of persons or things to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of others” (from dictionary.com). 

As parents we have hopes of impacting our families in a a positive and godly fashion.

I am the third generation of believers in our family. My Gram, an Italian immigrant, found Jesus and blazed the way. She lived a life of belief and faith. Mom was next, following in Gram’s footsteps of faith. Mom imparted to us godly principles by which to live and honor God. It’s my turn now and I desire to run this relay race of faith and pass the baton to my children and grandchildren.

When my family observes my life, do they see a strong belief in God – Who does the impossible and blesses His children in unexpected and delightful ways?

In his book, The 5 Levels of Leadership, John Maxwell  shares:

If you can develop solid relationships with people and you can produce, you can be an effective leader.

Productive leaders are an example to the people they lead, and their productivity sets the standard for the team. President Abraham Lincoln recognized this. During the American Civil War, the president relieved General John C. Fremont of his command. He said it was for this reason: “His cardinal mistake is that he isolates himself and allows no one to see him.” Lincoln knew that leaders need to be among their people, inspiring them with their ability, letting them see what the standard should be for their performance. When leaders produce, so do their people. Productive leaders thrive on results ”“ from themselves and the team. They show the way and others follow.

(pages139-140)

In a nutshell, as leaders and parents, we must live with authenticity. As others see the results and the outcome of pursuing God, they will desire to join the pursuit. Our lives should display our faith with clarity, compelling others to faith.

We need to be present and available to others. Spend time with them. Let them see our struggles, our failures, our answers to prayers and our successes. The manner in which Jesus lived His life is a perfect example.

He called the twelve ”“ His closest followers, the disciples. He spent time with them 24/7. They ate, traveled, discussed, slept, and prayed together. He poured His life into them. They did life together. Jesus modeled for them on a daily basis exactly what discipleship should be. Why?

So that when He was gone, they would be able to carry on. They, in turn, would be able to model and mentor others. They would be successful in passing the baton.

The principle is there for us in Scripture:

“I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you.“ (2 Timothy 1:5, NLT).

From this Scripture, we can learn two things:

1. We must have genuine faith.
2. We must share our faith.

Our faith can be contagious,
and our lives influence others.

Father, help me to be a godly example to those around me, especially those in my own family. Thank You for the blessing of my children and my grandchildren. Allow me to live in such a way that they see Your faithfulness. As far as it depends on me, help me to point them to You in all, and above all things. Amen.

Today I am joining … #ChasingCommunity and Heart Encouragement Thursday and Tune In Thursday .