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“Positively Influencing Others”

Thoughts for Today:

Previously, Paul confirmed that we have a lot of freedom to do things the Bible is silent upon. However, he did pose two important conditions in the form of questions: "Is it beneficial? Is it constructive?" Today he asks another: "Is it good for others?" Paul lived his life in accordance with these principles. As a result, he made some enormous personal sacrifices that yielded a significant harvest for the kingdom.

The world says, "Live your own life," and "Take care of your own wants and needs first." Yet, God has designed us for inter-dependence. We are NOT to live our lives as if we have no responsibility to our brothers and sisters. (Romans 14:15: "If your brother is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy your brother for whom Christ died.")

God has called all Christians to look at our actions based upon the impact we have on others. It's an obligation we have that is the same as Paul's. In John 13:20, Jesus said,: "I tell you the truth, whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me; and whoever accepts me accepts the one who sent me." Therefore, whenever we meet another Christian, we are coming face to face with Christ. Paul interpreted this to mean we have a great responsibility to live in a way that is not harmful to others. So rather than selfishly trying to satisfy our own desires, comfort, or convenience -- our choices should be governed and determined by how our example can positively influence others.

Questions to Ponder:

As long as we focus on ourselves, we will be oblivious to the needs of others. What areas of conduct has God spoken to you about? Will you obey? Ephesians 5:8-10: "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord." Does your behavior please the Lord?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.