Influence is powerful, and the Bible has much to say about how we can be both positively and negatively influenced. Whether it’s through friends, media, or society, the Bible offers wisdom on how to discern and guard against harmful influences while fostering ones that bring us closer to God.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Arousal
Matthew 5:13-14
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
These verses remind us of the influential role we have as believers in the world. Just as salt adds flavor and preserves, we are called to bring a positive influence to those around us. Similarly, just as a light dispels darkness and guides, we are to shine the light of Christ in a world that desperately needs it.
Jesus calls us to be distinct from the world, maintaining our godly character and values to impact others. As influencers, we must be intentional in living out our faith, so that through us, others may experience the transformative power of God’s love.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse highlights the importance of carefully choosing our associations. Influences, both positive and negative, can shape our character and decisions. By surrounding ourselves with wise and godly individuals, we position ourselves to grow in wisdom and discernment.
Conversely, associating with foolish or ungodly individuals can lead us astray and cause harm. As influencers, it is vital to discern the company we keep, ensuring we are connected to individuals who will support and encourage us in our pursuit of Christ-likeness.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”
This verse reinforces the idea that our companions can significantly impact our character and behavior. It warns against being deceived by the notion that we can unscathed by negative influences. Instead, we must be vigilant in choosing our friendships wisely.
As influencers, we must recognize that the company we keep can either strengthen or weaken our faith. By surrounding ourselves with like-minded believers and avoiding the company of those who may lead us astray, we can guard our hearts and maintain a positive influence on others.
1 Peter 2:12
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”
These words encourage believers to live lives of integrity and righteousness, even in the midst of a skeptical and unbelieving world. Our actions and deeds should be a reflection of Christ’s love and grace, drawing others to Him.
As influencers, our conduct should be characterized by kindness, compassion, and selflessness. Through our virtuous behavior, we have the opportunity to demonstrate the reality of God’s transforming power and bring glory to His name.
Mark 9:50
“Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other.”
In this verse, Jesus speaks of the importance of preserving the distinctiveness of our faith. Salt loses its effectiveness if it becomes contaminated or diluted, just as our influence can be compromised if we compromise our beliefs.
As influencers, we are called to maintain the distinctive flavor of the Gospel in a world that may seek to dilute or distort it. We are also exhorted to pursue peace and unity among fellow believers, for a divided body diminishes our collective impact on the world.
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
These words of Jesus remind us of our responsibility to shine the light of God’s love and truth to those around us. Our actions, characterized by kindness, love, and righteousness, should be visible to others, ultimately pointing them to the glory of our Heavenly Father.
As influencers, we should strive to live authentic and godly lives, letting our actions speak louder than words. Our positive influence can lead others to glorify God and be drawn closer to Him.
Proverbs 22:24-25
“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”
These verses emphasize the dangers of associating with individuals who have a volatile and easily provoked disposition. The influence of such people can lead us to adopt similar negative traits and behaviors.
As influencers, we must exercise discernment in our relationships, avoiding connections that may lead us away from the path of righteousness. Surrounding ourselves with individuals who cultivate peace and godliness will enable us to maintain a positive and influential lifestyle.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This proverb illustrates the importance of healthy and edifying relationships. Just as iron sharpens and refines iron, our interactions with godly individuals can bring growth and transformation in our lives.
As influencers, we should seek out mentors, friends, and accountability partners who will challenge, encourage, and inspire us to become more Christ-like. These relationships are invaluable in our journey of faith and enable us to have a stronger and more effective influence on others.
2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
This verse emphasizes the importance of being cautious regarding close partnerships or relationships with those who do not share our faith. The values and principles of believers are fundamentally different from those who do not follow Christ.
As influencers, we are called to maintain our commitment to living according to God’s truth and to avoid compromising our faith by forming intimate connections with those who do not share our beliefs.
Ephesians 5:1-2
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
These verses urge believers to imitate God and walk in love, following the example set by Christ’s sacrificial love for us. Through our words, actions, and attitudes, we should constantly strive to reflect the love of Christ to those around us.
As influencers, we must prioritize cultivating love and selflessness, treating others with kindness, compassion, and respect. It is through our love for one another that the transformative power of the Gospel is most evident and impactful.
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
This verse encourages believers to resist conforming to the values and behaviors of the world. Instead, we are called to allow God to renew our minds and transform us into individuals who reflect His will and purposes.
As influencers, we must continually surrender ourselves to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to shape our thoughts, desires, and actions. By living in alignment with God’s will, we have the opportunity to influence others towards His truth and righteousness.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
These verses highlight the qualities produced by the Holy Spirit within believers, commonly known as the fruit of the Spirit. As we abide in Christ, these virtues become evident in our lives and serve as a compelling witness to the world.
As influencers, we should strive to cultivate and display these qualities in our interactions with others. The fruit of the Spirit not only reflects God’s character but also has the power to draw people to Him and positively impact their lives.
1 Timothy 4:12
“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.”
These words of Paul encourage young believers to be examples in various areas of their lives, serving as positive influencers despite their age. Age does not limit one’s ability to inspire others through words, actions, and a godly lifestyle.
As influencers, regardless of our age or circumstances, we should strive to be role models, demonstrating Christ-like qualities through our speech, behavior, love, faith, and purity. Our impact on others should not be hindered by our age but rather fueled by our commitment to living for Christ.
Colossians 4:5-6
“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
These verses encourage believers to be intentional in their interactions with those outside the faith. We are to approach outsiders with wisdom, making the most of every opportunity to engage them with the Gospel through our words and actions.
As influencers, we must strive to be winsome and gracious in our conversations, conveying the truth of God’s Word with kindness and respect. By doing so, we can effectively communicate the hope and love found in Christ to a world in need.
Galatians 6:9-10
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”
These verses encourage believers to persevere in their acts of kindness and goodness, not growing weary in doing what is right. The promise of a future harvest motivates us to continue sowing seeds of love and generosity.
As influencers, we should seize every opportunity to do good, not only within the body of Christ but also to all people. Our continual acts of kindness and love will leave a lasting impact on others, reflecting the heart of our Heavenly Father.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of effective communication and self-control in our interactions with others. To be influential, we must be attentive listeners, slow to give our own opinions, and slow to anger.
As influencers, we should prioritize understanding and empathizing with others rather than rushing to judgment or reacting impulsively. By doing so, we cultivate relationships built on respect and mutual learning, allowing our influence to be received with openness and receptivity.
Titus 2:7-8
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness, and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.”
This passage instructs believers to serve as examples of righteousness and integrity in every aspect of life. By demonstrating godly behavior and sound teaching, we can silence critics and effectively impact those who oppose the faith.
As influencers, we should strive for consistency between our words and actions, allowing our lives to authenticate the message we proclaim. Our conduct and teachings should be characterized by uncompromising honesty, reverence, and wisdom, drawing others closer to the truth of the Gospel.
Philippians 2:14-15
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.”
These verses call believers to embody a positive and blameless attitude, distinguishing themselves in a dark and corrupted world. By responding to challenging circumstances with joy and gratitude, we can serve as beacons of light, pointing others to Christ.
As influencers, our demeanor and response to difficulties should exhibit the transformative power of the Gospel. By choosing gratitude, contentment, and unity, we can radiate the hope and peace of Christ, drawing others to the light of His love.
Psalm 1:1-2
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night.”
This psalm highlights the importance of avoiding negative influences and instead delighting in God’s Word. By immersing ourselves in His truth, we can become rooted and grounded in righteousness.
As influencers, we should prioritize our relationship with God, allowing His Word to shape our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. By seeking His guidance and wisdom, we can live lives that reflect His character and positively impact those around us.
Psalm 119:11
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of treasuring God’s Word in our hearts, as it serves as a safeguard against sin and temptation. By internalizing His truth, we equip ourselves with the tools necessary to live in accordance with His will.
As influencers, we should prioritize the study, memorization, and meditation on Scripture, allowing it to become an integral part of our being. By internalizing and applying God’s Word, we can navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and discernment, driving us to positively impact those around us.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
In this verse, Paul exhorts believers to be sources of encouragement and edification for one another. By speaking words of affirmation, support, and hope, we can uplift and inspire those within the body of Christ.
As influencers, we should actively seek opportunities to encourage and build up our fellow believers. By acknowledging their strengths, affirming their worth, and offering support, we contribute to the growth and spiritual well-being of the body of Christ.