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Dealing with unsaved friends and relatives can be an uncomfortable subject for Believers. Many would rather avoid family gatherings because they don’t want to be around profanity or alcohol. They look at their unsaved family members and friends and think, “They’re going to Hell in a hand basket; I had better stay away from them.” However, that’s not the attitude we should have concerning people who are unsaved. We have been called to influence people and win souls for the Kingdom of God; and that will only happen when we care, and love people enough to make contact with them.
Influence is “the act or power of producing an effect without any apparent exertion.” It’s not control; it’s affect. It’s what happens to people just from being around you. As a Believer, it is absolutely your job to be influential. When Jesus saved you, He had someone else in mind as well. Although you enjoy the wonderful benefits of salvation, it’s not just for you; it’s for someone else also. Much like Abraham, you were chosen by God to influence the lives of those around you (Genesis 12:1-3).
When many people hear our church’s vision, Making a mark that cannot be erased, they think it’s some type of slogan, or marketing title we created to be catchy; but it’s much, much more than that. It’s what we have been called to do—make a mark by allowing the Word to change us so we can positively influence the lives of others.
Whether you know it or not, you can make a difference in the lives of people around you. You’d be surprised how much influence you can have just by living a holy lifestyle. Second Corinthians 3:2 in The Amplified Bible says, “[No] you yourselves are our letter of recommendation (our credentials), written in your hearts, to be known (perceived, recognized) and read by everybody.” People are looking at your life, even when you think they’re not. They want to know why you get up, get dressed, go to church, and serve God. They want to know, what’s the point? What’s the objective? What’s the benefit? That’s why as Christians, we must do what it takes to be committed to the title and the lifestyle.
People are influenced most by your words, attitudes, behavior, actions, and choices. We are Christ’s representatives on Earth (2 Corinthians 5:20). People can’t see God in the flesh; however, they can have an encounter with us, and hopefully see God in us—and that’s what it’s all about.
Jesus is the ultimate example of someone who lived an influential life. When He encountered people, He ministered the love of God to them. He made it His mission to share the love of the Father in everything He did. I encourage you to make a commitment to do the same.
We are in the End Times, and we cannot shy away from people who don’t know the Lord. For a long time, Christians have avoided contact with unsaved people. However, it’s our job to share God’s love with every person—especially the unsaved. Think about it, how can God save them if we refuse to tell them about Jesus?
Be bold in 2008 by loving people. Don’t be afraid to stand for God; however, don’t beat people over the head with the Bible. People don’t care how much you know; they just want to know how much you care. They are not impressed because you carry your Bible around; they want to see the Word working in your life. Stop preaching; laugh, have fun, and allow God to be seen in everything you do.
If you find yourself spending time with unsaved friends or relatives, ask God what His plan is for your time with them. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in winning souls for the Kingdom of God. When you are led by the Spirit, you will truly make a mark that cannot be erased!
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