07
Beware of Influence
Tim Savage14As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died. 15It doesn’t matter whether we have been circumcised or not. What counts is whether we have been transformed into a new creation. 16May God’s peace and mercy be upon all who live by this principle; they are the new people of God. Galatians 6
This morning in the School of Christian Leadership class, Pastor Rod taught on the LIFE of a leader. The “I” in LIFE is “influence.” Often influence is gained or earned through success or accomplishment. Paul (the author of Galatians) tells us about the danger of influence, by saying that he would never boast about anything, anything except Jesus. Boasting stems from pride and pride comes from us believing that we accomplished something on our own, something for which we take credit. The panel of young leaders that Pastor Rod brought up on stage to talk about influence agreed that we must be very careful with influence, because God is the only one deserving of praise, we are simply His vessels. Our deeds don’t buy our salvation. Pastor Wayne says that most people cannot survive success. The power, influence and financial gain that come with success are too great a burden to bear and people go off the deep end. How many celebrities can we name that start off as good examples, but end up on TMZ?
I don’t think we should shy away from influence. After all, we must be that salt of the earth and salt influences the food to which it is sprinkled. Influence can create a reason for non-believers to listen and watch – Russell Wilson, Kevin Durant, Tim Tebow, Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Shia Lebouf – to name a few currently on the hot list. But, we have to be prepared for the weight of influence and we should crave the limelight and the power and money that can come from it. We rarely think about the devastating effects from crumbling under the weigh of influence, so we are rarely prepared to face the temptations that come with it. I must strive to live with the heart of Paul, 14“As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died.”
Dear Heavenly Father,
I know my pride often is my downfall. Please forgive me when I’ve taken any credit for those things you do through me. Help me to shine Your light and give me wisdom and discernment, strength and courage to steward influence well.
In Jesus name,
Amen
