II Chronicles 26:3-5
We all undergo influences. We are influenced in our way of life, in the things we buy, how we administer our life. The means of communication are probably the most effective tools to form the opinions and behaviors of the population. With well-elaborated advertisements, companies can easily convince consumers to purchase products they claim are the best.
Influence is inevitable. What we can choose is if the influence will occur for good or evil, taking us towards God or away from Him. Our decisions can be exemplary for the life of others, for good or evil. Our choices always have a greater reach than just our own life. God’s objective is that we be influenced by Him and His Word so that we can live a life according to his plans and not conform to the patterns of the world. When we make a commitment to live under God’s guidance, we become inspirational agents in the environment we live in. We no longer do what the majority does; we live a different lifestyle.
In today’s text, we see that Zachariah exerted a strong influence over king Uzziah’s life and indirectly affected the entire nation of Judah. Zachariah was a man committed to God and his life showed reverence and faithfulness to the Lord. Thus, the king respected him and learned from him. Zachariah did not only speak to God, but he also demonstrated a life with God, which gave him authority in his messages.
God desires that we be good role models at our work, at home, in school, in society, wherever we are. Maybe only one person will be directly inspired by us, but that one person could reach many others. What type of influence have you been exerting through your life? One that pushes away or attracts people to God?
“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done to you” – Jesus Christ (John 13:15).
The ones that are able to carry out good influences are only those who are not corrupted by bad ones.
