The Power of Influence: Balancing Impact and Responsibility

Surround yourself with people who remind you of God’s truth. Read more...

A wise and wonderful friend once said, “With greater numbers comes greater responsibility.” Her words struck a chord, settling deeply in my heart. As someone called to lead a global women’s ministry, I’ve often reflected on the weight of influence—how our words can potentially shape others' thoughts, beliefs, and even actions.

Her words were a powerful reminder that while possessing such influence is a privilege, it requires increased responsibility that grows alongside our platform. To inspire, guide, and uplift—these are incredible opportunities, but they require intentionality to be exercised with great caution and care and are often accompanied by significant challenges. This responsibility becomes even more profound for those of us walking in faith. We’re not just influencing; we’re reflecting Christ. Whether our platform feels grand or humble, we’re called to use it to share God’s love with the world.

And here's the beautiful truth—our platforms aren’t reserved for massive ministries or global audiences. More often, they’re found in the quiet, everyday moments that shape our lives: a meaningful conversation at work, quality time with family, or a heartfelt exchange with a friend. It’s within these seemingly ordinary spaces that we discover countless opportunities to reflect the love of Jesus. Through our words, actions, and even our struggles, we have the chance to embody what it means to live a life rooted in Christ, offering others a glimpse of His presence and inviting them to encounter Him through us.

Living Your Faith Through Action

Using your platform for God’s glory might feel daunting at times. It can mean stepping outside your comfort zone—praying for someone who’s hurting, sharing your faith in a vulnerable moment, or being honest about the challenges you’ve faced and how God has carried you through. These small yet courageous acts often ripple outward, touching lives in ways we may never fully know. But that’s the beauty of living out our faith through action; it’s not about recognition or applause but about serving God and loving others in a way that reflects His heart. Living out our faith is like planting seeds of hope, kindness, and truth. Though we may not always witness the harvest, we can trust that God will nurture and grow what we’ve sown.

Facing Challenges with Trust

As we pursue our mission, we may face challenges such as criticism and pressure to conform to others' standards. In these moments, it’s easy to feel discouraged and begin to question our efforts. However, Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV) throws us a lifeline: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Rather than relying on our limited understanding or seeking validation from others, this proverb invites us to pursue a higher path—placing our trust in God and acknowledging His sovereignty in our lives. Our human perspective is often limited by fleeting emotions or incomplete knowledge, but God’s wisdom is infinite and perfect. When we choose to lean on Him, He provides us with the tools to make sound decisions, strength to face challenges, and guidance to navigate the uncertainties of life. Trusting God is not about having all the answers or even an easy path, but it allows us to confidently step forward in faith, knowing that He is walking alongside us every step of the way.

So, how can we actively trust God in our daily lives? How do we acknowledge Him in every step?

Here are a few ways that have helped me:

1. Seek Wise Counsel 

Surround yourself with people who remind you of God’s truth and offer guidance when the way forward is unclear. Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no guidance, the people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” The friends, mentors, and fellow believers God places in our lives are often His way of providing encouragement and direction. They can offer faith-based perspectives, share their experiences, and point us back to God’s word. In times of uncertainty, these relationships become a source of strength, reminding us that we are never meant to navigate life alone.

2. Pray Continually 

One of the most powerful ways to express our trust in God is prayer. Prayer allows us to speak directly with Him, sharing our fears, doubts, and struggles while also expressing gratitude and praise. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us of this: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Making prayer a consistent part of our daily lives can help us stay connected to God and trust His plan.

3. Study His Word

To trust in someone, we need to know them well. The same applies to our relationship with God. By studying His word, we can deepen our understanding of who He is and how He works in our lives. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us that “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” The more we learn about God through His word, the more we can trust in His plans for us.

Taking the First Step

So, what does trusting God look like for you today? It isn't always about grand gestures; it’s often found in the small, intentional choices we make each day to honor Him. What small step can you take to use your platform—no matter the size—to make an impact? Maybe it’s sending a kind message to someone who’s struggling or offering encouragement to a friend who needs a reminder that they’re not alone. Or it could be simply sharing your faith in an honest, heartfelt conversation. Whatever it is, take that step. Trust that God can work through you in ways far beyond what you could ever hope, dream, or imagine.

As we step forward in faith, let’s remember our calling: to be a beacon of God’s light in a world often overshadowed by darkness. By trusting His guidance and leaning on His wisdom instead of our own, we allow His light to shine brightly through us. In doing so, we touch others' lives with the hope, joy, and peace that can only be found in Him—a gift that reaches farther and impacts deeper than we may ever know.

The world needs His light—Together, let's shine it brightly for all the world to see.