Things That Influence
Things often influence us. When pondering the word “things” we may think first of inanimate objects, those without life, like a possession. A thing can also refer to information, a deed, or even thoughts.
After Mary gave birth to Jesus and received a visit from shepherds the event was so awesome, the Bible says she “treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19).
In more than a thousand places in Scripture “things” are mentioned: new things, hidden things, mighty things, wonderful things, good things, heavenly things, proclaimed things, pleasant things, valuable things, precious things, detestable things, wicked things, righteous things, things given, things spoken, other things, and of course many others.
The Apostle Paul helped the Philippians—and us–to meditate on important things. “Brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things” (Phil.4:8 NKJV).
Then there are people who use their God-given talents to create things that touch or influence thousands even years later.
Dutch artist Rembrandt’s painting, “Return of the Prodigal’s Son” which was finished in 1669, still inspires those who view it in the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia.
When Paul Bunyan read Martin Luther’s pamphlet on Galatians, it brought about his conversion. It inspired him to write Pilgrim’s Progress while confined in jail for 12 years for refusing to give up preaching. He died at age 59 in 1688. His book has been translated into more than 135 languages and is still being read by hundreds.
Those are but two examples of things created by man that touched thousands of people over several centuries.
Maybe you want to stop and recall things which have inspired and influenced you over the years. Then think of sharing what you gleaned from those extra-ordinary take-aways.
Ideas to cause you to remember things that really touched you:
- Look up some Bible verses that deal with the word “things” and see if you have some memorable lessons for yourself.
- List a few favorite books which have influenced your life. Answer why and how they did.
- List special objects that have made your life happier because they represent something that so profoundly touched you or left you with a great memory. Example: a piece of jewelry, a sculpture, a doll, a photo, an antique, a seashell, a souvenir from a favorite trip.
- Think of other things which have brightened your outlook on life. Example: a roaring ocean, a spectacular waterfall, a colorful flower garden, a busy street scene, a snowcapped mountain, a night of star-gazing. Did it make you appreciate your Creator even more and inspire you to desire to share your experience? To impact or influence others?
Prayer: Thank you, Jesus for the many things we learned from You when You lived on earth that are recorded in the Gospels. Help us use our talents and giftings wisely and may the things we create or things that we do bless others, Amen.
Scriptures: But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26 NKJV)
A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. (Matthew 12:35-36NKJV)
Excerpted from my book, Cast Your Shadow: Influence on Purpose. Available on Amazon.
Comments (0)