Have you ever experienced when being introduced to someone you had not met before that they responded, “I’ve heard about you”? Was the first thought, “What have they heard?” To have heard implies one’s reputation has preceded the introduction. Was what was heard good or bad? A reality to consider is that sometimes people hear about us whom we have not yet met or perhaps might never meet personally. That means there is potential to impact the lives of others even indirectly. And, as has been said, “Everyone has influence, for good or bad, upon others.” (Henry Ward Beecher)
Our life can be like a stone plopping in the water with the ripples going out from there. Though our life might be within a specific sphere, there can be a ripple effect going out from where we are to influence either for good or bad. Therefore, it is always good to be mindful of the example of our life since its impact can be more far reaching than we might know.
In his first letter to Christians at Thessalonica, Paul noted their example in writing. . .
“(6) And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, (7) so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. (8) For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything.” (1 Thessalonians 1:6-8 ESV)
Paul went on to note the example of the manner in which he and those with him had been received and the life transition these had made. (1 Thessalonians 1:9) Others had heard. Their example spoke for itself. It was a source of encouragement for others. That is what our life ought to be as well. Even with those who are unaccepting of the truth in Christ, our example will still speak for itself. Understanding the great potential for influence for either good or bad, beyond what we might declare verbally may our life example speak a good word as we strive to live as imitators of the Lord!
Have a great day MAKING RIPPLES OF GOOD REPUTE!
Carl
