Session 5
How Are You Using Your Influence?
From 1 Peter: A 20-Day Devotional
We all love to impart wisdom, don’t we? Our world is full of those giving and receiving parenting or financial advice. There are blogs on everything from how to decorate your home to the healthiest foods to eat. Social media is littered with opinions about the best sports teams, the best books to read and the best movies to watch. Whatever personal expertise we have in this world, we love to share it with others.
Why do we assume this role of teacher in most aspects of our lives, but shy away from it in our spiritual walk? In 1 Peter 5, Peter gives a clear directive for the elders of the church to shepherd their flock. Likewise, as Christians who are further in our faith, we, too, have a responsibility to shepherd and serve others. We are to guide and watch over newer Christians and lead by example as servants of Jesus Christ.
The people in your life are not there by accident. Acts 17:26 says “from one man [God] made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.” You have the opportunity to lead those around you on the greatest adventure of their life, and you can start now.
Sharing wisdom on paint colors, foods, books, movies and college teams is fun, but these things are temporary. Our primary calling is to lead people on their walk with Jesus. We have people in our lives that we are uniquely gifted to lead. Accepting this responsibility is not a temporary calling but one that will affect generations to come.
Reflect:
- Who’s been the most influential person in your day-to-day walk with Jesus? How did that person serve you and guide you in your walk with Jesus?
- Who comes to mind as people in your life that are “entrusted to you”?
- What’s one way you can shepherd those newer Christians around you this week?