Christian Family Missions and Ministry

The Stewardship of Influence

Being a good manager of what God has given you is called “stewardship.” Most of us think of money when we say stewardship, but stewardship is more than that. One of the most important things that we have to manage for God is the influence that He has given us.

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We are so easily influenced, aren’t we? We are influenced by the times, media, money, position. But most of all, we are influenced by people, and we influence people all day long. We can influence them for a moment or for all eternity! Who are the people that have had the greatest influence on your life? Why?


We influence others about what is important to us, bearing witness to our beliefs and priorities. We influence others by our appearance, words, actions and reactions. What does your daily life show that you value? What would people say you talk about most of the time? How would others describe how you operate under stress, anger, or frustration? Does your life exude “the aroma of Christ” (2 Cor. 2:15)?


Steven Covey said, “To influence, you have to be influenced.” We have to know Christ, to be able to clearly explain who Jesus is and how we know He is real. We have to recognize the way He has worked in our life and be prepared to share what He has done for us, and for them. Effective witnessing is recognizing opportunities to relate God to the other person's needs.


Here are some suggestions on using your influence for God and for good.


  1. Hurt for the Lost – Do you know or remember what it was like to be lost? Imagine not knowing where to turn for truth, not knowing God’s love, protection, guidance, not knowing how to handle guilt and shame, or worry or fear; not understanding forgiveness, or a personal relationship with God, or eternity? Hurt for the Lost.

  2. Pray. Ask God to give you a particular opportunity every day to share Him. Then watch for intersecting moments with others when your faith can be share naturally.

  3. Look people in the eyes and truly listen when they speak. Tune the world out and tune in to them. Ask questions:
    1. What’s your biggest question in life?
    2. What is your biggest challenge in life?
    3. What do you think happens when you die?
    4. Who do you think Jesus is? What does that mean to you?

  4. Maintain a cheerful disposition. It allows the Jesus joy to escape from you and connect with others.

  5. Share how Jesus is important in your life. Share God’s Word about who He is.

  6. Invite others to places where the name of Christ and the Word are being spoken such as church or fellowship groups such as: www.FPWDallas.org, www.RoaringLambsMinistries.org, www.DFWChristianChamber.com

"We are therefore Christ's ambassadors," (i.e. a diplomatic official of the highest rank, authorized to deliver a message) “We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God.”


Even if others are not ready, you are giving them faith for the future. They may see no reason for God now, but one day they might, and what they remember about us, our faith, in those moments, may govern their response in their time of need. I pray it be so.


By: Donna Skell


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With a heart for God, people, and business, Donna stays active in the Christian community, serving as the Director of Programs with Roaring Lambs. Roaring Lambs is a nonprofit ministry dedicating to helping others amplify their faith. Donna’s rich Jewish heritage and her study of God's Word enhance her insight into the issues involved in Christian faith and living.