The power of influence Bible

         Influence is the ability to shape the thoughts, behaviors, and destinies of others—whether for good or evil. In the Bible, influence is a powerful tool that can be used to advance God’s purposes or derail them, depending on the character and intent of the influencer. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture is filled with examples of individuals whose influence changed nations, inspired generations, or led people into sin.

1. What is Influence According to the Bible?

         Influence in the Bible is often described as the ability to impact others through words, actions, faith, leadership, or even presence. Jesus called His followers to be “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13–16), implying that Christians are to influence the world in a godly and transformative way.

    Proverbs 13:20 (NIV): “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”

         This verse reminds us that influence can be received as well as given. Who you associate with shapes your life.

2. Positive Examples of Influence in the Bible

a. Joseph (Genesis 39–50)

         Joseph influenced Egypt and saved nations from famine. Despite his trials, his character, wisdom, and God-given insight elevated him to become Pharaoh’s right-hand man.

    Genesis 41:38–40: “Can we find anyone like this man, one in whom is the spirit of God?”

b. Esther (Esther 4–8)

         Esther risked her life to influence the king and save her people. Her influence was rooted in boldness, faith, and divine purpose.

    Esther 4:14: “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”

c. Daniel (Daniel 1–6)

          Daniel influenced kings and empires with his unwavering faith and wisdom. He stood firm in prayer and obedience, impacting Babylonian and Persian rulers.

    Daniel 6:3: “Now Daniel so distinguished himself... that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.”

d. Jesus Christ

         The ultimate example of godly influence. Jesus' life, teachings, death, and resurrection have transformed billions of lives and continue to influence the world eternally.

    John 13:15: “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

e. Paul the Apostle

         Paul’s letters, teachings, and missionary journeys influenced the early church and the global Christian movement.

    1 Corinthians 11:1: “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”

3. Negative Examples of Influence in the Bible

a. Jezebel (1 Kings 16–21)

         Jezebel influenced her husband, King Ahab, to worship Baal and commit great wickedness in Israel.

    1 Kings 21:25: “There was never anyone like Ahab, who sold himself to do evil in the eyes of the Lord, urged on by Jezebel his wife.”

b. Jeroboam (1 Kings 12:26–33)

         He led Israel into idolatry by setting up golden calves and false worship to prevent his people from returning to Jerusalem.

    1 Kings 14:16: “And he will give Israel up because of the sins Jeroboam has committed and has caused Israel to commit.”

c. The Serpent (Genesis 3)

         Satan, through the serpent, influenced Eve and Adam to sin, leading to the fall of mankind.

    Genesis 3:13: “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.”

4. Principles of Godly Influence

a. Influence Starts with Integrity

    Proverbs 11:3: “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”

         People are influenced not just by what you say, but by how you live.

b. Influence Flows from the Heart

    Luke 6:45: “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart...”

         Your character determines the nature of your influence.

c. Influence Requires Boldness and Love

    2 Timothy 1:7: “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

         You can’t influence others for Christ while being passive or fearful.

5. How Can a Christian Use Influence Today?

● Be a godly role model: Let your lifestyle reflect Christ.

● Speak truth with love: Correct in gentleness, encourage with hope.

● Use platforms wisely: Whether at home, school, online, or work, let your influence point others to Jesus.

● Disciple others: Invest in people spiritually the way Jesus did.

    Matthew 28:19–20: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…”

6. Warnings about Misusing Influence

    Romans 14:13: “...make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.”

         Even good intentions can become harmful if they lead others away from God’s will.

7. Prayer Points on Godly Influence

1. Lord, make me a vessel of godly influence in my generation. (Matthew 5:14–16)

2. Help me walk in wisdom and integrity that others may glorify You. (Colossians 4:5–6)

3. Remove every ungodly influence from my life and relationships. (Psalm 1:1–3)

4. Use me to lead others to salvation and truth in Christ. (1 Timothy 4:12)

5. Empower me to stand firm even when others compromise. (Romans 12:2)

         The power of influence is undeniable. The Bible shows that one person can impact families, communities, or even nations. Whether like Esther, Daniel, or Paul, we are all called to be salt and light—to reflect God's glory and guide others toward Him. Guard your influence. Use it wisely. And always remember: the most powerful influence is a life wholly surrendered to God.