The greatest impact we have on each other is the subtle, indirect way we “flavor” the world around us. Jesus called us the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world.” The truth is, we will influence the world around us. The question is how do we live in ways that bring about the right influence in the world?
1. Who is someone who has influenced you? What impact have they had on you? How did they have this kind of impact?
2. Sometimes the greatest impact we have is the impact we don’t know we are having. Tell of a time when you found this to be true in your own life.
3. Think of a time when you tried to use your authority to make something happen. How well did this bring about lasting change?
4. How does our character relate to our influence? What is one area where your life need to be MORE shaped by God’s influence in it?
5. What do you think God’s vision for the world is? How is this different than the way the world is now?
6. What is a specific situation in your life or work that you wish were different? How could you be the change that you want to see in that situation?
Read Galatians 5:22-23. What fruit of God’s Spirit is most prevalent in your life? Which one is most lacking? Patience? Love? Kindness? Choose one and write it on some cards to tape up in strategic places at home, work, or in your car. Use these cards as reminders to pray for this virtue in your life. Notice how you are becoming more able to have this virtue and notice how you are seeing this virtue come about in the people around you through your influence.
God, you have an impact for us to make in the world. There have been times when had great confidence in our ability to really make a difference in the world. At other times, we have been discouraged and wondered if things could really change. Help us be the change that we want to see—that you want to see—in the world. Work on our character so that in subtle, indirect ways, the world may be different because we are different. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.