How much is a Christian influence worth as you associate with your peers? A usual conversation would probably be negative – what untruth someone said about you; how someone treated you; how bad things are; how unfair and bad things are today. Paul didn’t say, (Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are false, whatsoever things are a lie, whatsoever things are unfair, whatsoever things are despicable, whatsoever things are of a negative report; think on these things, “ Philippians 4:8. This kind of attitude will not present a positive feeling toward people, things, and actions. Think Christian Influence! Don’t let your attitude reflect a negative idea as to Christ’s church. The church is criticized more today than ever before.
Paul spoke of positive things – “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; it there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Waking up with this thought in mind would be a great way to start your day!
Hurtful actions and things will happen – you have cause to be upset. Dwelling on those things drain you emotionally and spiritually. You need uplifting conversation! The Word of God says in Hebrews 13:1, “Let brotherly love continue.” Don’t think on the negative things! If you find yourself doing so, remember what Paul said – the list of good things to think upon – godly, holy, pure, honest things.
Shining Forth in Adversity
Read Acts 16:19-24. This was not a good day for Paul and Silas. They had reason to complain – lies were told about them; they were whipped for nothing; their clothes were ripped off in public and they were beaten. They had been treated unfairly and imprisoned falsely. Did they take a negative attitude? They had cause to complain!! Verses 25-28 says, “And at midnight [at the darkest hour] Paul and Silas [they did not complain and grumble] prayed, and sang praises unto God [no doubt people were wathing them, wondering how they were going to react]; and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed. And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.” They and all prisoners could have taken the opportunity to escape, but instead, seeing the love Paul and Silas had for them, the jailer immediately wanted to know what he had to do to be saved.”
Classmates, as well as other people, are watching your life. The stories and actions you are accused of will soon be forgotten if you continue to present your constant Christian influence. The manner in which you take the adversity plays an important role in maintaining a positive attitude. As they watch your attitude and your example in life, will that cause them to be drawn to Christ, wanting to become the person you uphold?
As people watch your life, are they drawn to Christ or pushed away because of how you react in adversity? People are going to wrong you and do things against you. People may tell lies about you, cheat you, and bring negative reports about you. Don’t dwell on those things.
You have two choices – you have choice concerning how you live each day. You can choose to be a positive Christian, or you can choose to be depressed. Walk closer to God. You cannot control some circumstances in life, but you can control how you react to each situation.
