Person of Influence

"I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some."

1 Corinthians 9:22b

Are you a person of influence?  I think in some way, we can all answer 'yes' to this question.  But what type of influence are you offering?  As I have been reading through the letters that Paul had to write to the churches of his day, I have been consumed with how heavy his heart must have been.  I have specifically been focused on the Corinthian church lately...he had to write two letters  to them! 

As we grow increasingly closer to God, He provides more and more 'experiences' to enter our lives so that we may become exactly what Paul was referring to in 1 Corinthians 9:22b.  We begin to have the unimaginable ability to relate with people on a more personal level in areas we never thought we would have experience in.

I have mentioned before that in this season of my life, God is giving me an opportunity to humble myself.  Many of us claim to be humble, but do our actions show it?  Do we put on a 'mask' or allow others to 'mask' us with certain expectations that we are determined to not show the truth of ourselves?  For example,

- Do others think you have it all together, therefore, when you are having a terrible day you put on a fake smile and not reveal how miserable you are inside? 
- Do you desire attention so much that you dwell on all the bad things going on in your life or even those close to you in order to get words of encouragement or simple recognition? 
- Do people think you have a wonderful marriage, but at home cold shoulders, small talk or arguing are the only things present? 
- Do you pride yourself as organized, balanced, and ahead of the game for anything that could be thrown your way - yet lately you feel as though you are drowning in a sea of paperwork, appointments, deadlines and expectations? 

If you relate to these circumstances or any others , REJOICE, God is in the process of making you into a person of influence, able to reach more than before this trial!  He is making you into someone who can reach all men by becoming all things.  Before we can minister or influence someone on certain situations, we must first go through them...victoriously.  The only way to victoriously go through a situation is by doing it Christ's way.  Many of us can attest that we have had to circle a few mountains more than one time, I certainly can!

Take this season of your life, whatever it may be, seek God's direction, guidance, and wisdom for it.  We do not know who, when or where He will use it in order influence someone else. 
Have a blessed day and weekend!