Are You a Source of Positive Influence or Misery?

Dear Friends,

As a Clinical Christian Counselor, one of the most important aspects of our lives that we often overlook is our impact on those around us. Our words, actions, and attitudes can either uplift and encourage others or bring them down and create an atmosphere of negativity. It's crucial to reflect on whether we are a positive influence or misery. Let’s explore how we can be intentional about being a positive force in the lives of those around us, supported by biblical wisdom and practical steps.

The Power of Influence

Influence is the capacity to affect the character, development, or behavior of someone or something. We all have influence, whether we realize it or not, and how we use it can significantly impact others. Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." This verse highlights our mutual influence on each other, shaping one another’s lives through our interactions.

Reflecting on Our Influence

We must engage in honest self-reflection to determine whether we are a source of positive influence or misery. Here are some questions to consider:

• Do my words encourage and uplift others, or do they criticize and belittle?
• Do my actions demonstrate kindness and generosity, or do they show selfishness and indifference?
• Do I create an environment of peace and joy, or do I contribute to tension and conflict?

Biblical Guidance on Being a Positive Influence

The Bible offers clear guidance on how we should interact with others to be a source of positive influence:

1. Speak Words of Life: Proverbs 18:21 reminds us, "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." Our words can build others up or tear them down. Ephesians 4:29 advises, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

2. Demonstrate Love and Kindness: Jesus taught us to love one another as He has loved us. John 13:34 says, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." Acts of kindness and compassion reflect God’s love and can transform relationships and communities.

3. Practice Patience and Forgiveness: Patience and forgiveness with others are essential for maintaining positive relationships. Colossians 3:13 encourages us, "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

4. Serve Others Selflessly: Philippians 2:3-4 instructs us, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests, but each of you to the interests of the others." Serving others with humility and selflessness is a powerful way to influence those around us positively.

Practical Steps to Be a Positive Influence

1. Cultivate a Positive Attitude: Our attitude sets the tone for our interactions with others. Choose to focus on the positive aspects of life and express gratitude regularly. Philippians 4:8 encourages us, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

2. Be a Good Listener: Listening attentively to others shows you value and respect them. It also allows you to understand their needs and respond appropriately. James 1:19 advises, "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry."

3. Encourage and Support: Make it a habit to encourage and support those around you. Offer words of affirmation, lend a helping hand, and be there for others in times of need. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

4. Lead by Example: Your actions often speak louder than your words. Strive to live a life that reflects your values and beliefs. 1 Timothy 4:12 encourages us, "Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity."

The Impact of Positive Influence

Being a source of positive influence can have a ripple effect, spreading kindness, joy, and hope to those around us. It fosters an environment where people feel valued and supported, leading to stronger, healthier relationships. Additionally, it brings glory to God, as our actions reflect His love and grace.

Matthew 5:16 says, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." By being a positive influence, we shine the light of Christ in a world that desperately needs it.

Encouragement for Your Journey

Dear friends, being a source of positive influence is a choice we make daily. By aligning our words and actions with biblical principles, we can uplift those around us and create a nurturing environment. Reflect on your influence and strive to be a beacon of hope, love, and encouragement.

Remember the words of Galatians 6:9, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Continue to sow seeds of positivity and kindness, trusting that God will use your influence for His glory and the good of others.

With heartfelt encouragement,

Dr. Samuel Said

Clinical Christian Counselor