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Day 32
Day 32 | Small Acts of Daily Influence
ACTIVITY
Continue:
- P.A.C.T.—Pray | Ask | Confess | Thank
- P.A.S.S.—Pray Prior | Author's Intent | Stop when Convicted | Share
Your Call To Act (C.T.A.) today is:
- Ask yourself this question today and then do it: How can influence the lives that I will influence today for Jesus?
PROVERBS 25
25 These are more proverbs of Solomon, compiled by the men of Hezekiah king of Judah:
2 It is the glory of God to conceal a matter;
to search out a matter is the glory of kings.
3 As the heavens are high and the earth is deep,
so the hearts of kings are unsearchable.
4 Remove the dross from the silver,
and a silversmith can produce a vessel;
5 remove wicked officials from the king’s presence,
and his throne will be established through righteousness.
6 Do not exalt yourself in the king’s presence,
and do not claim a place among his great men;
7 it is better for him to say to you, “Come up here,”
than for him to humiliate you before his nobles.
What you have seen with your eyes
8 do not bring hastily to court,
for what will you do in the end
if your neighbor puts you to shame?
9 If you take your neighbor to court,
do not betray another’s confidence,
10 or the one who hears it may shame you
and the charge against you will stand.
11 Like apples[b] of gold in settings of silver
is a ruling rightly given.
12 Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold
is the rebuke of a wise judge to a listening ear.
13 Like a snow-cooled drink at harvest time
is a trustworthy messenger to the one who sends him;
he refreshes the spirit of his master.
14 Like clouds and wind without rain
is one who boasts of gifts never given.
15 Through patience a ruler can be persuaded,
and a gentle tongue can break a bone.
16 If you find honey, eat just enough—
too much of it, and you will vomit.
17 Seldom set foot in your neighbor’s house—
too much of you, and they will hate you.
18 Like a club or a sword or a sharp arrow
is one who gives false testimony against a neighbor.
19 Like a broken tooth or a lame foot
is reliance on the unfaithful in a time of trouble.
20 Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day,
or like vinegar poured on a wound,
is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.
21 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat;
if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
22 In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head,
and the Lord will reward you.
23 Like a north wind that brings unexpected rain
is a sly tongue—which provokes a horrified look.
24 Better to live on a corner of the roof
than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.
25 Like cold water to a weary soul
is good news from a distant land.
26 Like a muddied spring or a polluted well
are the righteous who give way to the wicked.
27 It is not good to eat too much honey,
nor is it honorable to search out matters that are too deep.
28 Like a city whose walls are broken through
is a person who lacks self-control.
TRANSCRIPT
Goal: Small Acts of Daily Influence
I believe we far underestimate the power of daily influence. Influencing others daily when done over a long period of time has an extraordinary impact. There is something about standing firm, being immovable, and dedicated to good works over a long period of time. It’s incredibly inspiring and has a multiplication power we take for granted.
We overlook daily influence because we love the quick fix and fast track to high impact. We, men, will even praise and idolize this when we see it. Yet the long-term simplicity and the power of daily influence has compound results.
Paul was a man with tremendous influence. It wasn’t a title or notoriety he sought. It was obedience done in small steps of hopeful active influence over a long period of time. He stayed with it until God opened the next door, and the next, and the next. And with the Roman Christians, we know he longed to be with them. Yet he was unable to be with them in person, he persisted. He extended his ministry influence by writing a long letter to them that we know as the book of Romans. Which by the way has become one of the most influential books of the Bible. It was a letter that not only eventually reached the Romans—but for us today. I am sure Paul had no idea that this prevention of influence was going to result in even greater influence for the kingdom. I am sure Paul had no idea that this prevention of influence was going to result in even greater influence for the kingdom. It might have even been more influential than preaching to them in person. And how did this come to pass? Small acts of daily influence. His plan for influence was to take a small step that he could take in lieu of the ones he was prevented from taking.
As a man of God, we need to see the opportunity we have to influence the people around us. We already have a number of circles of influence at this present moment. Here are four primary circles of influence of every man—home, work, neighbors, and friends. There are people within our reach every day. God has given us these circles and the people within them and we need to minister to them first. This is our circle of influence. Frequently we overlook them, but we should not. They are our first ministry.
We can sometimes forget that we have a wife to lead, children to disciple, employees to guide, and even neighbors to serve. Living in Godly obedience to them is where we begin and from here we must daily influence them in small steps over a long period of time. Do this and a man’s ministry takes shape over a long period of time.
Do this today. Consider how God is wanting to use your influence with your circles of influence only for today. Consider the four circles of influence we mentioned above—home, work, friends, and neighbors. Then name the people within your circle of influence that you need to serve in active obedience. And then act on that. Influence them through your obedience.
Ask yourself this question today, How can influence the lives that I will influence today for Jesus?
And then do it.
DEVO
Have you ever noticed how negative and critical our speech can be? We rant about issues. We're sarcastic about situations. We cut down people, products, or processes. You'll even probably talk negatively about yourselves, to yourself, at some point today. Just pay attention. Notice how often you hear or say something that has a negative connotation and then read this:
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver. Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear. Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest is a faithful messenger to those who send him; he refreshes the soul of his masters.—Proverbs 25:11-12
Instead of perpetuating what is harmful, condescending, and hurtful—season your speech with something rich, wise, pure, and refreshing.
DO THIS: Speak kindly.
PRAY THIS: God, guide me toward encouraging speech with every person I meet today.
⚡⚡⚡Share That You Completed Today's Challenge ⚡⚡⚡
15 Through patience a ruler can be persuaded,
and a gentle tongue can break a bone.
Many places in my life I can be used to influence, I need to be submissive and sensitive to Spirit leading me. I’m usually in a rush, my flesh acts out and everything is all about me
Showing them how to live for the Lord.
My goal is to happier and friendlier
v 21 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat;
if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
v 22 In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head,
and the Lord will reward you.
These verses convict and challenge me. Meeting people who I disagree with our seemingly cause me angst with love and kindness. This will be my Daily Act of Obedience and Influence.
My goal to influence lives in my circle today is to be Kind.
Verse 26 spoke to me this morning – Like a muddied spring or a polluted well are the righteous who give way to the wicked.
“remove wicked officials from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness.”
I thought this was something that I could apply. I imagine that the “wicked officials” are advisors and if you are getting your advice – i.e. in business, relationships, and spirituality – you probably aren’t tending toward righteousness. I will apply this in considering who do I get my advice from and look at adding righteous people to my pool of advisors.
Don’t be hasty. How easy it is to talk negatively about those in power. God help me this day. I appreciate this study- showing how the little things we do is what’s important. For the most part I feel this is all I can do for the Kingdom of God. Thank you Vince for this talk.
Verse 28 is convicting to me: “Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” I struggle with self control often; in areas of eating, anger management, etc. So the verse is a call for me to work on, and improve, my self control.
That is where I need to start, at home with children and grandchildren and great grandchildren. I pray Lord give me what l stand in need to do just that. God help
I have been blessed to be a huge influencer in my family, neighborhood, work, and friends. This is a huge honor and sometimes it can feel like a burden. The parents on my block seem to follow and enforce rules that I set for my daughter in my house, in their own. Also, it seems like in my small group my influence is huge although I am not as successful in the worlds definition (big house, fast cars, big bank account). I believe it is the Lord blessing me. I needed this reminder today so that I can be more of a blessing to the people around me. There is always room for improvement.
I’m grateful to be able to act like a dad to an exes 16 year old daughter. We have built such a great bond that we continue to stay in each other’s lives. Today was my birthday and I chose to spend it with her and go to church and have lunch and do some shopping. She never argues about going to church and even asks to go on occasion. I’m hopeful my example is a good one and that she will continue to keep Christ in her life.
My sphere to influence is definitely my family. I need to be more humble and obedient role model for my family, not to mention a better husband.
My current circle is my wife and kids. I can influence them by my walk and how I communicate to them. If I say one thing and do another, then I am influencing them in the wrong way. I need to back it up with action and pouring the word into them daily as well as point them to Christ in every situation. My job as a husband and father is to lead them well and I will begin to make that more of a priority.
I pray that I can be a good influence this day forward.
Done
Wow, influence through obedience. That’s the first time I’ve ever heard that. For today, I can influence my home, my work and maybe one or two of my friends (if we have contact).
Often times I speak more pleasantly with strangers and people I work with than I do my own family. Today’s devotional really hit home. I am going to intentionally focus on being positive with my words and not negative. My family deserves my best, not my leftovers.
I have realized in the past that you are what you eat. The influences that is present has an affect on ones well being. Actions are bigger than words. Life is a learning experience. I just do by best everyday and remain faithful in the good word. I’m only human. Making many good decisions, seldom not good ones. The path that the Lord wants for me is a food one. I am positive and greatful about that. Praise the Lord.
Verse 28 Like a city whose walls are broken through
is a person who lacks self-control.
This verse speaks loudly to me today. For my soulmate my family I need to have self-control in order get through this pandemic! The dark one is always ready to pounce on us and take us out! He will NOT succeed! Thanks Vince for helping us to be WARRIORS!!
I’m going to be more of an influence to my father in law and pray the holy spirit knocks him over his head.I love him and he has a lot of questions that I can’t answer.
Like cold water to a weary soul
is good news from a distant land.
Found out today, my sister tested negative for COVID 19
Minister to those in need. If your enemy needs food feed them. To seek ones own
glory, is not glory.
I will take the suggestion from you Vince. I will sit down with my kids and ask for forgiveness for losing my temper and let them know I will try harder to talk more gently to them.
In sharing today with family, something as subtle as sharing this 32nd day of All In, and the importance of following thru / being obedient to stay in the word. And sharing Love with a Christian Brother about each others day. Be available to each other, as the Lord is available to us !
I love the circle idea family, friends neighbors , people we work with . My co workers have been where Gods been leading me lately and all little things from them using the Lords name in vain I’ve been speaking up more and more and some are coming to me now and asking for prayer for there trials… I love encouraging people no matter where I’m at you can see the smile in there faces
I strive to be an influencer for Christ with family and friends.
Small acts of obedience, every day, over and over and over again.
Verse 28
Self control is so difficult, but as this verse says, lacking it leaves you vulnerable to attacks from all sides. For me personally, I have to rely on a combination of God, avoiding certain people / places / things, and having people I trust to support me to keep my “walls” of self control strong.
As far as people to influence, I have to continue to keep my wife and daughters as my first focus for serving in active obedience.
Self control is so hard sometimes. Proverbs has much to say about it. the last verse today likens it to a city with broken walls. Remembering this can help me choose better when I’m challenged. I don’t want to be broken down and vulnerable to all kinds of attacks that can destroy me. Lord help me to lean on you and make the hard choices against my sin nature.
I personally have some big opportunities to affect my circles of influence at work and with my friends but mainly at home. Father, I ask you to guide my actions and words to fulfill your will.
While running, I often stop, walk, and talk with a neighbor while he walks dogs. We discuss spiritual things.
Yes. I must be a better example for my family. Work on me and my walk instead of trying to correct others. !!
By following Christs model, show them love. Walk the walk
Verses to dig deeper in to:
15 Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.
21 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
22 In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.
(I need to further understand the reference to the “burning coals” … I’m familiar with this verse, but not sure of it’s meaning.)
25 Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land.
I would add strangers (person X ) to our circle of influence ( family, friends, co-workers, neighbors). That should include everyone we come into contact with. Let Christ in you so live through you so that others may see Him, and come to know Him.
Whoever digs a pit will fall into it; if someone rolls a stone, it will roll back on them. Proverbs 26:27
I know I sometimes dwell on things that don’t appear right to me and then I share my frustration with others. As I’m digging that pit I’m certainly not following the Lord or influencing anyone around me! Lord, help me put the shovel down!
I traveled all last week and experienced two types of people, humble and boastful. After reading the last verse, I can’t help but think that there are more boastful, and this is where I sometimes struggle…to be more of an example than a bystander, but for the sake of a potential sell/opportunity I listen.
But I will say, as I pour more into this challenge I have noticed God coming through in a bigger way. As I keep walking in him, he has put the right people in my path at the right time. I know he’s showing even in business dealings, he is my provider!
Lord help to serve others today in my home, family, friends, and work.
Ahh, ministry! I hate to think where my head, or my body would be with out it. The different daily obedience and disciplines that I commit to definitely keep my mind focused on God. I’m not going to mention what they are. Actions speak louder than words. Hey! I just realized something, discipline and disciple are very close words. Hummm.
Influence. First take away from this book….speak kindly….will do more of that! Second, I believe that through my daily walks with my Golden thru the Neighborhood, I influence folks with my good natured humor and friendliness…I always ask those I see if they are well, and is there anything I may do for them….surely if that is not influencing, then at least it is setting a good example.
patience, self-control, submission to others, and a gentle tongue are areas I need to work on. I need to apologize to my kids for losing my temper at them, even if they were the ones pushing my buttons. I need to listen to my boss and not argue, even if hey are wrong. I need to keep my advice for my friends to myself unless I feel led to share my opinion by the Holy Spirit. I need to connect with and share my testimony with my neighbors and build rapport so that I can be the light and salt for them and draw them to Jesus like a moth to the flame.
We are commanded to speak in kindness and to show the grace given us. Not always an easy task with everything we face each day.
I try to remind myself that all people are created in His image and therefore if they have value by God, then they should have value by us.
We need to trust God’s leading and just due to ourselves daily and live for Him! He will guide us what to do and what to say.
Trust that He will!
So much wisdom in these words in proverbs. It’s interesting today as Vince talks about influence. I visited some of my family today and as I was coming home i was so saddened, that i was talking to God about what can i do to help them. I felt helpless. How can I influence them. I do not know the answers yet but I am wondering what God will lead me to do. To be obedient. Funny/interesting/Amazing how God works. We are blessed Gentlemen.
verses 21-22- the heaping of hot coals on your enemy is another way Jesus talked about loving and caring for your enemy
There is one guy in my top 5 who looks like he is turning to the Lord after months of daily praying for him; I know we are called to do more than just pray, but I don’t want to forget in the midst of trying to be more spiritually active that prayer is a foundation of sorts in our ministering
I need to do a better job at influencing my family.
Love it. One act of obedience at a time.
Get into community with other men. That’s how you influence.
I am reaching out by suttle hints from my life with the Lord.
I need to be in obedience with my wife and daughter. Be engaged when we are together and lead them well.
Obedience=Influence
26 Like a muddied spring or a polluted well
are the righteous who give way to the wicked.
I pray that God grounds me in His truth and gives me the courage and wisdom to not give way when I encounter values that aren’t aligned to His teachings.
My circle of influence today is my family and friends. I need to seek the simple interactions that will uplift them and open conversations about our faith.
v28. Like a city whose walls are broken through
is a person who lacks self-control.
I control the strength of those walls by its foundation….created and strengthened daily by your word. Help me to be obedient and influential in my circle of influence today and everyday!
Prov 25:21 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
I think so many people we come in contact with everyday are simply hungry and thirsty for encouragement. Our small act of obedience to slow down and to listen to and encourage someone can be huge in another persons life. It’s something I know I need to do and I know the more I do it, the more I’ll want to do it!
Consistency! Loved that he points us towards the long game. Quick wins are great and show impact fast and we shouldn’t dismiss the slow progress we are making which may be influenced years from now. Within those 4 areas he mentioned of who I am influencing through obedience to God; Kathryn, my Shield lock, Judy (neighbor). Need to work on other two neighbors & work folks.
My influence today is teaching Romans 11:17-21 to my adult couples Sunday school class and fellowshipping with them at our Super Bowl party tonight. Lord, help me to follow your leading today so others will follow you. Interesting comment my 25 year old son made last night, “Dad, you know it’s hard for the church to get teacher. We just grow them.” My wife teaches high school girls and Zachery teaches Jr high boys Sunday school. What a complement…we just grow them. Your children know your heart and what you do.
As Christian men, we have multiple opportunities to influence others. Vince listed the four areas where we can influence others through our actions, home, work, friends and neighbors. I am putting focus on my family and was able to spend time with yesterday talking to my grandson about God. I was a truly blessed conversation and will surely prompt more talks moving forward.
I want to influence my wife today by being obedient to the goals we’ve set for the year. Specifically I want to grab the substance book and pick out one or two of the adoption / foster care groups and reach out to them via email to get things started.
Done. I picked out a group in the Substance handout and sent an email to the group leaders to learn more about it.
#boom
I find myself more often being influenced by those around me than influencing those around me. I was challenged today to be more proactive in serving and to respond to negativity with positivity.
Be that light that’s shines for Christ for you family to see and when you look in the mirror may you see his reflection.
I am praying this morning that I am obedient to God so that I may influence my youngest son today during our day of golf. I am exited to see how the Holy Spirt works through me today.
Let the way we live our lives for Christ. E reflected in all that we do.
I am going to be more intentional about influencing my family.
I need to kill pride, be humble and be patient. This will lead to gentleness towards others (not judgement) and love like Jesus loves.
⚡⚡⚡
Today I have the opportunity to influence my church family, family, and friends. I will strive to show them Jesus today with a servants heart.
Woke up today with a “beat in my step” Maybe its because its Sunday, make its day 32 of the Challenge, but I can tell you this I have forfeited many things as a man during this challenge, stopped the disqualifying and working very hard on this obedient thing……..to say the least. Last night I left some friends off for a social event they noticed a difference, and they said they had to change a few things and I said, “Thank you Jesus!” By just seeing the positive in me, they were convicted and said more then I ever heard come out of their mouths. So with that said……………….Stay focused men-Good things constantly happen.
Proverbs 25:26 Like a muddied spring or a polluted well
are the righteous who give way to the wicked.
Borrowed this commentary for the verse above.
Christians are supposed to stand up for what is right. An attack on a Christian is actually an attack upon their Lord. For a Christian to be degraded by the wicked is like a beautiful spring of water that has been corrupted.
Day 32. 15 With patience, a ruler may be persuaded. God’s time.
My family is my circle of influence today. Lord help me apply the teachings of Proverbs today and everyday.
Verse 14 struck me this morning. I paraphrase to that old adage ” under promise but over deliver.” The important part is delivering.
In my study bible it says these proverbs were directed towards the king or those who dealt with the king. Helpful to those who are leaders or aspiring to be leaders. Fitting for this challenge for men who aspire to do better! Being Godly men and leaders in our families has amazing results. I’m very thankful for this challenge and a daily reminder of how to better my walk with God.
“Obedience to hopeful active influence over a long period of time… then stay with it until God opens the next door…’ amazing! It’s what I needed to hear today.
Thanks
My wife an children are my circle today. Patience, self control, listening, timely advice are just a few things in chapter 25 that are suggestions for influencing.