Influence

Influence. Influence is a very powerful thing and everyone can be influenced or pulled in every different direction by almost anyone. Influence can go both ways, positive or negative, and the morality of the influence comes from the influential person. I have definitely been inspired to greatness by many different people, both through their actions and their words.

Abraham Lincoln has influenced me through his actions. When he was elected president he took all of his top competition from the presidential race from both parties, and made them his cabinet. This is in opposition to modern presidents who surround themselves with people who think in the same way that they do. This has challenged me to use the strengths of my enemies to work together and overcome problems.

David was another person that influenced me through his actions. When he was in hiding and in constant fear of death he was faced with a problem. David was hiding in a cave with his men when Saul came in to relieve himself. David had the perfect opportunity to kill Saul and become king right then and there, but as he was about to plunge his dagger, he realized that this was not God’s timing. David’s experience influenced me to remember not to ruin God’s plan for my life by using my timeline instead of His.

Francis Chan has also had a huge influence on my life through his words. He has opened up the Word of God for me in ways that I never even dreamed about. The insights that God shares through his messages have helped my walk with God so much.

Negative influences on my life have mostly come from the voices and actions of my peers. In public school I don’t think any of my friends were a good influence on my yet I listened to every one of them. Here in SCS I have also had negative influence through the voices of my friends.

If someone were to talk about my influence on others I would definitely say I have gone both ways. I know that in my past I have influenced people younger than me to do some incredibly stupid things, but I also know that for the last couple of years I have been able to have a positive influence on a lot of people both young and old, that I have met. I say this not because I’m prideful enough just to assume that, but because they have told me about my influence on them, and it is such an encouragement to hear people say that.