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God’s Grace Essential to Right Use of Influence, March 29
Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and whoever is
dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much.
Luke 16:10
, NRSV.
Character is power. The silent witness of a true, unselfish, godly life carries an
almost irresistible influence. By revealing in our own life the character of Christ
we cooperate with Him in the work of saving souls. It is only by revealing in our
life His character that we can cooperate with Him. And the wider the sphere of our
influence, the more good we may do. When those who profess to serve God follow
Christ’s example, practicing the principles of the law in their daily life; when every
act bears witness that they love God supremely and their neighbor as themselves,
then will the church have power to move the world.
But never should it be forgotten that influence is no less a power for evil. To
lose one’s own soul is a terrible thing; but to cause the loss of other souls is still
more terrible. That our influence should be a savor of death unto death is a fearful
thought; yet this is possible. Many who profess to gather with Christ are scattering
from Him. This is why the church is so weak. Many indulge freely in criticism and
accusing. By giving expression to suspicion, jealousy, and discontent, they yield
themselves as instruments to Satan. Before they realize what they are doing, the
adversary has through them accomplished his purpose. The impression of evil has
been made, the shadow has been cast, the arrows of Satan have found their mark.
Distrust, unbelief, and downright infidelity have fastened upon those who otherwise
might have accepted Christ.
Meanwhile the workers for Satan look complacently upon those whom they
have driven to skepticism, and who are now hardened against reproof and entreaty.
They flatter themselves that in comparison with these souls they are virtuous and
righteous. They do not realize that these sad wrecks of character are the work of
their own unbridled tongues and rebellious hearts. It is through their influence that
these tempted ones have fallen.
So frivolity, selfish indulgence, and careless indifference on the part of professed
Christians are turning away many souls from the path of life. Many there are who
will fear to meet at the bar of God the results of their influence. It is only through
the grace of God that we can make a right use of this endowment.—
Christ’s Object
Lessons, 340, 341
.
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