You want to be an influence to other people. With your children, you want to influence them to be the best they can be. You are an example to others, whether you want to be or not. People are watching you every day. They are looking to see how you handle situations that life throws your way.
Knowing that others are watching you, and that you are influencing them, leads you to want to know how you can be the best influence to others. When talking about influencing others, Albert Schweitzer says this: “Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing.” In your life, think about people that have made an impact upon your life; their example played an important part in that process.
Jesus selected twelve men to be with Him during His earthly ministry. He wanted desperately to influence them with something, so that after He left them, that would leave a mighty impact upon their lives. To impact the disciples’ ministry Jesus tells them, “For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you” (John 13:15). Paul taught believers to follow him as he followed the Lord. Yes, the Lord Jesus Christ is your example. You are to follow His teaching in all areas of your life. The youth several years ago had a bracelet that they would wear with these words on it to help they handle daily experiences Godly—”What Would Jesus Do?” Not bad theology at all.
Jesus is your example. When other people look at your life to see how Christianity is lived out in daily situations, be the best example to them that you can be. Remember, Jesus commands you to follow His example. Will you fail in doing this? You will fail, because you are not perfect. Jesus knows you are not perfect, but He commands you to try your best to life a sinless life. Jesus is just looking for you to live with perfection as your goal. As you live your life, with Christ being your example, you will be the influence others need.
