According to lots of people it is of the highest importance.
Not that I disagree. Our ability to influence, persuade, is very important.
What kind of influence do we want? How do we attain it? Once we have it how do we use it?
Carlos Whittaker nailed this idea last week when he said:
Jesus did not set out to become an influential leader by getting other influential leaders to fall in love with him.
He set out to see people rescued from the grip of death.
And lives changed was the base of his influence.
Not the words of another.
I have fallen into this trap from time to time. I have been blessed to have the opportunity to be around some really amazing people. People who are having a huge Kingdom impact on the world. Looking back I can see how, instead of relying on God to fulfill His call and promise in my life, I have served the man of God well hoping the man of God would launch me into my calling.
It wasn’t a conscious thing and I am aware of how serving another mans vision shows me faithful to carry my own call. David laid down his life for sheep he would never inherit. It’s a subtle shift with huge implications. We must be faithful servers and stewards and look only to God for what He has for us.
In the last several years I have had the enormous privilege of mentoring dozens of amazing young men who will be world changers. I’m happy to have my influence in the hands of those God has entrusted to me.
Contentment is watching someone you have walked with over several years making good choices, loving his wife, and serving with joy and passion.
Who has God entrusted to you? Pour into them and watch them step into the fullness of their calling. Zig Ziglar said years ago the way to fulfill your dreams is to help others fulfill theirs. A truth that rings true in my heart today more than ever.
Don’t waste time on superficial temporary fame. Make sure your influence will last.
