New Article: Influence Starts Here

A Swiss Army knife, a Leatherman, or a similar multitool gadget is a good thing to keep in your toolbox, glove compartment, or junk drawer. They will not provide every tool you will ever need, but they are a good starting point.

So here is the question: When it comes to people, where do you begin if you want to be an influence for good in someone’s life? Colossians 2:1-5 provides us with two valuable tools.

First, Paul says, “My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart” (verse 2). Boy, we need some encouragers who make it their business to strengthen and build others up. Discouragement disables us and derails our plans. I think Satan’s best tool against us right now is our own negative attitudes. Our predisposition to focus on the bad or what could go wrong crushes our ambitions, hopes, and joy. I am not saying we should be naïve, but I am saying that we had better see our blessings.

Secondly, Paul says, “My purpose is that they may be… united in love” (verse 2). This phrase is interesting because the church often emphasizes being united in thought or belief, but before that, we must be united in love. Love allows me to hear your thoughts and viewpoint. Love causes me to try to understand your struggles and celebrate your victories. Love opens doors.

Now, this may seem insignificant. Any self-help book will emphasize the need for encouragement and love. However, in the context of faith, this is not a lightweight teaching. The passage goes on to say that we do these things, “so that… they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ” (verse 2). When we encourage and love others, they see Christ in us. Jesus becomes part of the story when we treat others as he would treat them.

Do you want to make a difference? Encourage and love others so they see Jesus in you.

Is that all you need to do? No! But it is always the starting point.

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