Influence!

Influence!

Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend [to show rage or worthy purpose]. Proverbs 27:17 AMPC

Background:

Again, we read from the words of Solomon, the king blessed by God with so much wisdom that God declared that there will not be a king like him, either before or after him. This was how unique he was. God has no problem blessing a man beyond limits; the issue is always about how man handles all that God gives. Solomon was also in a unique position, as he was king over Israel, and people came from the ends of the earth to hear him speak. He had influence, and he was also influenced. As we know now, he was so rich that he made silver as common as stones in Jerusalem, and he made Israel prosperous, yet he could not rein in the power and impact of men over his personal life. Bible records show that he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines. How can anyone concentrate on God with that number of distractions? How would a man with such wisdom from God become so careless?

Focus:

Before I point the finger at another, I must take careful audit of my life too; who are those people with power over my daily decisions? In my daily routine, who are those people or what are those principles that are able to guide my decision making? Nothing happens in a vacuum; I won't just wake up and decide to do anything. I would think and pray through it, maybe consult other people who may have walked that path before, and then decide what to do. This is the power of the people who have been placed on our path. No one exists on an island; we come from different families, we marry into other families and then as we relate in church, school, the community and other public groups, we meet and interact with other families too. This process was set up by God to build relationships, but I have a duty to make sure I cultivate the right ones, not just the loud and visible ones.

Conclusion:

The power of one man is massive, not to talk of an entire community of people. Only iron or a similar substance can sharpen iron. If I will remain sharp and impactful, I must keep myself informed, and also help other people attain the same standard. Whatever the other person has will impact me one way or another so I must stand guard. Not everyone should hold my heart; it is impossible to please everyone. If I try to, I am setting myself up for massive disappointment. That person I allow into my life will touch it with whatever s/he has; therefore, before it sticks, I must review and vet it. If an easily-angered person is my best friend, I must be careful to impact with the spirit of self-control in me. If I dont, how would I not pick the habit? I watch my life closely, so that it can lead to a cause that God can bless. What's your decision? God's time of favour is here.