We Are Influencers
Though most of us are not teachers by profession, all of us influence others (Prov 13:20). We may do so by telling a story about our lives, stating why we believe something, or being an example through our actions (1 Cor 5:1-2, 6). Just as we cannot not communicate, so also, we cannot not influence others. Everything is communication and, if nothing else, teaches others about ourselves. Something is being conveyed to others whether it is true or false, helpful or hurtful, good or bad (Prov 22:24-25). What we express has a moral component as well. It can contribute to the development of good character or bad character, to someone becoming a better citizen or more of a menace to society, to their being encouraged to seek the Lord or be indifferent to Him (1 Cor 15:33).
What should we teach others each day? We should teach them what is spiritually helpful (Eph 4:29, CEV). How do we know what is right? By trying to discover God’s will on each particular matter – especially through what the Bible teaches. Since we will make many mistakes in attempting this (Jas 3:2), we ought to be respectful in how we phrase things to others and be humble enough to not need to be right about everything we say. For example, there is a difference between saying, “That was a stupid thing to do” and “That seemed to have been a mistake.” The former is declarative and final – we, the judge, have spoken. The latter is more respectful and tentative because we realize that we may lack some information that could make the action less than clearly wrong. It could become a matter of preference and nothing for which even the evaluation of ‘mistake’ would definitely apply.
Through our body language, voice tone, words, and actions, let us communicate what we believe is right. However, let us prefer to do so with enough respect and humility that others may be built up rather than feel diminished.
Avoid the wrong longings and the wrong way of pursuing the right longing.