SPHERE OF INFLUENCE

Impacting those in your sphere of influence

When I think of the different skills, abilities, desires, and interests God has given us to do His work, I’m amazed. We may have similar life experiences, but we are unique and can influence others in a way no one else can. I don’t believe the people who show up in our spheres are there by accident.

Considered how Simon Peter, a.k.a. The Big Fisherman, and the Apostle Paul, previously known as Saul of Tarsus, were uniquely prepared to minister to those who moved into their spheres of influence. Their objective was the same– to point people to God through Jesus Christ, but their primary audiences were often very different.

Think of the differences in these two men’s upbringing and education. Can you visualize what the early years of Peter, the rough, boisterous fisherman might have looked like? Contrast this to the upbringing of the highly educated Paul who was taught by the master teacher, Gamaliel, and was a “Pharisee of the Pharisees.” Though their spheres of influence included similar types of people, Peter often spoke more to the common people, while Paul witnessed before kings and rulers. They allowed the Lord to use their knowledge of words, people, and cultures to influence or impact those around them, and to point them to God via His Son. Their words often stirred up trouble and ended with the two being beaten or imprisoned, but there is no doubt they impacted those around them.

Do you think you have nothing unique to offer God? That you’re nothing out of the ordinary?

Think again. You’re special. You’re unique, and your gifts were given “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” Ephesians 4:12 (English Standard Version)  May you impact those in your sphere for the Kingdom.