The Laurel Canyon church of Christ

Influence of Friends

David Halbrook

“They won't affect me.”

“Even though my friends do it all the time, I'd never do that.”

“I'll change him but he'll never change me.”

“I'll go with them but I won't participate.”

When Christians, young or old, make these kinds of statements, it often reflects a lack of consideration of the power of influence. Influence is defined as “the capacity or power of persons or things to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behavior or opinions of others.” By design, we are creatures which influence and may be influenced. Look at your life and ask yourself how you influence others and how they influence you in the following circumstances:

The church meets on the first day of the week and you are present.
Your friends meet at a dance to spend the evening and you are absent.
Your friends meet to drink a few beers and watch movies and you are present?
Your team/club is competing for the state championship on Sunday night at the same time as worship and you choose to attend worship instead of the competition.
You have been inviting co-workers to the gospel meeting but during that week you volunteer yourself to work extra hours.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).