Bible Study: Influence

I have been reading 2 Chronicles recently, and I have seen a lot of examples of influence. For example, 2 Chronicles 22:3 "He [Ahaziah] too walked in the ways of the house of Ahab, for his mother encouraged him in doing wrong." In this situation, we see how Ahaziah's (King of Judah) mother had a bad influence on him. What if his mother was a woman of God? Would Ahaziah have done right? We don't know for sure, but I think so. "He [uzziah, king of Judah] sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the Lord, God gave him sucess." (2 Chronicles 26:5) In this case, the prophet Zechariah had a good influence on Uzziah. If Zechariah did not do right, maybe Uzziah would have been more like Ahaziah. I have a third example: After the death of Jehoiada [a priest], they abandoned the temple of the Lord, the God of their fathers, and worshipped Asherah poles and idols." (2 Chronicales 24:17-18) Three kings. Three influences. One good. Two bad. You set an example for your friends and family. You influence the people around you, even if you don't know about it. Think. Who do you influence? Your brothers and sisters? Your kids? Your coworkers? What can you do to set a good example for these people. For example, you can go to church, read the Bible, post a verse on your -banned site- page for your friends to see.

 

[Chilton]

I believe the example we set by way of actions, and speech are the best way to witness. We should conduct ourselves beyond reproach. This will open many doors to teach the gospel. Thank you for your wisdom.