Scripture: "So we have not stopped praying for you
since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete
knowledge of His will and to give you spiritual wisdom and
understanding." (Colossians 1:9).
Every now and then, a person in the news will capture my attention. When
this happens, I try to pray for them. People pay attention to
celebrities; they have a lot of power to influence others -- for good or
for evil. I pray that those famous people will come to know the Lord
and respect His ways, so they themselves can receive God's blessing, and
because of their influence, share it with others.
Please the Lord
I sometimes think about what it would be like to be a celebrity who
influences others. The truth is, we don't need to be famous to affect
others. When the Apostle Paul prayed for his friends in Colossi, he
hoped that "the way you live will always honor and please the Lord,
and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while,
you will grow as you learn to know God better and better” (Colossians 1:10).
Living humble, Spirit-filled lives, we can trust God that others will
notice and, we hope, follow the example God lets us provide.
Endure and Be Patient
When you pray for your friends and family, and strive to live a godly
life before them, some will accept God's salvation, but others will
not. This can be frustrating, but St. Paul continued in his prayer, "that
you will be strengthened with all His glorious power so you will have
all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy,
always thanking the Father” (Colossians 1:11-12a). You might not see the results of your prayers, but God knows your efforts; and your influence is valuable to those around you.
Share the Inheritance
God has given us an amazing gift, one that cannot run out nor be
"used up." We are blessed to be able to share His love and the message
of His salvation. St. Paul wrote, "He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to His people, who live in the light" (Colossians 1:12b).
When it comes down to it, one of the best ways to influence people is
to love God, live for Him, and help lead others to His eternal life.
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