What Are Others Learning From You?

Two moms on a bench. One reads a book with her child. The other scrolls on her phone. Then she sighs, “I wish my child would read.” The irony is impossible to miss: what you do, your child is likely to do.

That comic strip has stuck with me for over a year. My son is almost one, and every day he’s learning something new. Just the other day, he grabbed a napkin and began patting my face—exactly what I had been doing to him. What he sees and hears, he imitates.

But this isn’t just true for children. We all influence the people around us, whether positively or negatively.

Our Influence as Followers of Jesus

If you follow Jesus, the world is watching how you talk, act, and live. Jesus said:

“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? … You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. … Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
—Matthew 5:13-16

It would be ridiculous for salt to lose its flavor or for a lamp to be hidden under a basket. Likewise, it would be foolish for those who have experienced God’s goodness (Psalm 34:8) not to live in a way that others can see and be encouraged by it. God has placed our lives on display to reflect His glory.

Following Paul’s Example

In Acts 20, the apostle Paul knew he would face imprisonment and hardship as he preached the Gospel. In his final days with the Ephesian church, he reminded them of the example he had lived before them. He warned them about wolves who would seek to influence the flock negatively, encouraging them instead to remember the righteous influence he had modeled.

Consider reading Acts 20:17-38 and think through this: Would you be able to confidently say you are influencing others to see Jesus?

Reflecting on Your Influence

As I reflect on this, I ask myself the same question: Am I a godly influence to those around me? Could I stand before others and say, “Look at me and follow my example”? Paul could say with confidence in 1 Corinthians 11:1, “Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ.” I admit, there are parts of my life I wouldn’t want others to imitate.

But these scriptures encourage us to keep fighting the good fight, lean into God’s grace, and become the people He has called us to be: sold out for Jesus, living in a way that points others to Him. Every word, every action matters. Disciples who follow Christ closely can inspire others to do the same.

Reflect and Connect

1. Who have been positive, godly influences in your life? How are you modeling your life after them?

2. Who has God placed in your life for you to influence positively for His kingdom? How are you doing this? If you’re not, what is holding you back?