Circle of Influence

Given April 24, 2013

Influence is defined as, “The capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.”  The Urban Dictionary defines circle of influence as, “People you know whom you may receive assistance from or give assistance to.”  So, if we combine those two definitions, we get a group of people that may look to you for help or that you can choose to help; people you can have an influence on.

Today, let’s think about your Circle of Influence.  Who is in that circle?  Who do you have an influence on?  Your family, friends, co-workers, fellow students/teachers, neighbors, acquaintances?   And what influence are you having?  Good…bad?  If you’re a man, your Biblical responsibility is first to your family; your spouse and children.  But we all have an influence on others.  So think about your daily activities.  What influence are those activities having on those in your circle?  What influence should they be having? Are you trying to have a positive influence on these people?   Do you need to change something?

Consider something else.  Each day you encounter people who are not inside your circle but who step inside for a time. The checkout person, someone you meet in the grocery aisle, a stranger who comes to your place of business, someone who speaks to you at the ballgame or someone new at church.  You can have an influence on them for this short time.  What influence will it be?

A final way for you to influence others are the people who are not in your circle, nor do they step into your circle for a time, but are those who are outside looking in.  These are the people who just notice something you do or something you say as you go about your daily business.  It has been said, “You are the only Bible some people will ever read.”  You can have an influence on people you don’t even know about.  People are watching…what are they seeing?

Today, look inside your circle and determine to be a positive influence on those who are there.  Pay attention to those who step into your circle and do the same.  And realize that just by your actions and words, you are influencing others.  Be a good influence and reflect the image of God.  “In everything set them an example by doing what is good.” (Titus 2:7).