The older I become the more I realize how much my life affects others. I remember a third-grade boy I tutored for a whole school year at a local grade school and how much better he did in school just meeting two times per week. Knowing someone cares and is interested in you can make a huge difference in your entire week. When I reflected on that time of being a volunteer it was one of the greatest gifts the Lord gave me that year.
Who is the person in your life who had the greatest influence on you in a positive way? How did that change you? What did this person teach you that was so valuable? Who can you influence today in a positive way?
Achan’s Poor Decision Greatly Affected Others
Achan was greedy and took what did not belong to him. He took a beautiful Babylonian robe, 200 silver coins and a one-pound gold bar. This plunder from Jericho was to go the Lord. Achan’s theft broke the covenant with God. This resulted in a loss at the first battle of Ai and thirty-six soldiers died as a result.
Achan tried to hide his stolen good under his tent but God knew what happened. Achan was drawn by lots to be the guilty party and confessed to his deeds. But by pursuing the tempting wealth, his family was destroyed.
Joshua 7:24 Then Joshua and all the Israelites took Achan, the silver, the robe, the bar of gold, his sons, daughters, cattle, donkeys, sheep, goats, tent, and everything he had, and they brought them to the valley of Achor. 25 Then Joshua said to Achan, “Why have you brought trouble on us? The Lord will now bring trouble on you.” And all the Israelites stoned Achan and his family and burned their bodies.[1]
Let the Lord Lead You to Enrich the Lives of Others
Jesus calls us to make a difference. My life affects others and so does yours. We’re meant to be “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” This means living in such a way that we impact lives for God’s Kingdom (Matthew 5:13-16). We need to believe His Word and put it into practice instead of being intimidated or afraid of what others might say about us.
Remember that, every day, you have opportunities to impact people in your family or business, community or church. Don’t be a lukewarm believer or let the world intimidate you. Instead, make a radical commitment to follow Jesus and we can with the Lord’s help.
Seek first the Kingdom of God in every area of your life. Be bold and willing to make a difference. Ask the Lord to help you impact souls for Jesus.[2]
To learn more about how your life affects others, listen here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/seeking-the-lord-changes-my-life-joshua
[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Jos 7:24–25). Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.
[2] https://inspiration.org/daily-devotional/impacting-the-lives-of-others/