real influence
influencers. they are the people who impact our life and make a difference in who we are. a young leader once received direction from an older man about how to become a man of real influence. his words make for some of the most profound wisdom ever written. here’s what he said…
- seek to create desire in others by the grace you show them
- make use of teachable moments
- wait for their heart to be ready
- help them understand with humility
- depend completely on God
a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be kind to everyone… (2 timothy 2:24a)
in other words, if you want to make a difference in the lives of others, it won’t happen by arguing, debating, yelling, or threatening them. it won’t happen because you forcedor guilted them into submission.it will happen because you have been someone to them that they want to be. it will create in them desire to want to listen and change.
so often we think that if we can win the argument and prove them wrong then we’ve won. sadly, it is possible to win the debate and lose a person’s heart. the heart (pursuits & desires of a person) has to become our goal.
be able to teach… (vs. 24b)
make the most of the real moments of life. guide others. encourage others. watch for the moment when their heart is open to learn. be ready in that moment.
and be patient with difficult people… (vs. 24c)
relating to other people always requires patience. the message we send when we are patientis louder than anything else we sayor do. whodo you run to when you are in need of a friend? who do you turn to when you’ve messed up? isit not those who are most patient with you?
gentlyinstruct those who oppose thetruth… (vs. 25a)
its okay to not always have the answer. its okay to admit you struggle. these are some of the most powerful ways for relating to others. you gain volumes of credibility and trust when others know you are humble, honest, and vulnerable.
perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. (vs. 25b)
what a powerful truth – heart change always comes before mental learning. before a person understands, their heart has to be in a position to receive truth. I cannot make another change in their desires, character, and person. that has to happen on the level of heart. that has to happen by the move of God in someone’s life.
these principles have far reaching impact in so many relationships. think through each of them and how they apply to your friendships, your marriage, parenting, family, church, and how you view those who do not know God.
the results just might change everything.
