1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. KJV
WHAT GOD ENTRUSTED TO US- INFLUENCE.
A man entered my office to pick up some documents on behalf of his friend. He introduced himself and we got talking. I told him I don't know him though he was trying to describe himself properly to familiarise himself with me. He tried but I still made it clear to him that I didnt know him.
He said, "I know you. You are a public figure." I was startled. No one has ever told me I am a public figure not until that time. To a large extent, I still doubt I am. Truly, he knew so much about me than I thought anyone I don't know could ever know.
After he left, I learnt something from that experience. The number of those watching us that we don't know may be more than those we know. Also, as people watch us either closely or from afar, we are influencing them one way or the other. We all influence thoughts and opinions.
You might not know but it is the truth. If you have children, you're already influencing them and helping them to lay the foundation for their lives. My sons mimic me sometimes even my tongues. That's influence at work.
The way we talk, dress, react and behave is influencing someone. For those of us in ministry, we are influencers of people. Our influence is God-given. He will hold us responsible as to how we use it. We shall give an account of our stewardship in this regard someday.
In most churches, most of the sisters dress like the senior Pastor's wife especially if she has a unique way of dressing. Some persons talk like their Pastors unconsciously and even dress like him because they've come under his influence. If they're not careful, they'll behave like him having observed him closely.
"For we don’t live for ourselves or die for ourselves." (Romans 14:7 NLT)
The family is the greatest platform for influencing children and shaping young minds. The best way to do this is to be a godly model to children. Don't surrender this aspect to celebrities and worldly media which has negative influence on today's children.
If you're a school teacher, you're an influencer. Sometimes, children believe whatever their teachers tell them even if their teachers are wrong. Some of them will say, "My aunty said...".
As a kingdom steward, use the power of influence positively to make people see what is right and to make them do it. Ultimately, use the power of influence to point people to Jesus Christ in every situation and when opportunities present itself.
Father help me to influence people rightly in Jesus name.