The Power Of Our Influence

-July 24, 2024-

Good morning, happy Monday,

“And believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitudes of men and women, so that they brought the sick out into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might fall on some of them.”

(Acts 5:14-15).

The Holy Spirit worked through the apostles and all the saints in the early church there were signs wonders, healings, and changed lives. Many men and women were saved and they exerted great influence over a pagan society. In today’s text we see how even Peter’s shadow healed people when he passed by them.

A shadow is defined as, “a dark figure or image or some surface by a body intercepting light.” Shadows can only be seen on sunny days. When we walk in the light of the Lord our shadow is seen. We all cast a spiritual shadow for Christ. We desire that others around will be influenced for the Lord. We should never underestimate the power of our influence over others, whether good or bad. A mother took her young son shopping. After a day in the stores, a clerk handed the little boy a lollipop. “What do you say? the mother said to the boy, to which he replied, “Charge it!” How kids mimic their parents.

Children are influenced by the example of their parents; church members are influenced by the example of their pastors and leaders; and all believers are influenced by each other. Christ is our ultimate example. He had the greatest impact upon people by His words and actions. He lived only 33 years and His ministry lasted but 3 years, but what an powerful legacy He left behind. His shadow spread abroad to the whole world.

How is our shadow casting an influence over others? Can others see Christ in us. Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 2:14-15, “Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. For we are the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.”

An unknown poet wrote, “My life shall touch a dozen lives before the day is done; Leave countless marks for good or ill ere sets the evening sun. This is the wish I always wish, the prayer I always pray: Lord, may my life help other lives it touches by the way.”

Have a blessed day casting the shadow of your testimony and witness for Christ over all those you come into contact with today. Stay safe and healthy.

Being a blessing in word and deed,

Dean