Godly Influence

Influence.

According to Dictionary.com, it means: the capacity or power of persons or things to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of others.

As parents, we can't help but be concerned by the influence of others on our children. Not only are our children exposed to influence, but so are we. Who is influencing your behavior, actions, and opinions?

God warns us of influence:

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of the world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8

Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? 2 Corinthians 6:14

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

Seek His word first before making decisions. Do your decisions align with God's word and will? Or, are you conforming to the pattern of this world?

We have certainly struggled with this over the years. Some days it feels daunting--like we are up against the world. How much easier would life be if we just were to conform?

But, I am reminded that, in fact, we are up against the ways of the world, and that we must surround ourselves with godly influence.

Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers,
but whose delight is in the law of the LORD,
and who meditates on his law day and night.
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither--
whatever they do prospers.
Psalm 1:1-3