Influence

The late John Stott writes that Christians shouldn’t think they cannot change the society around them, when they in fact have tremendous influence.

#1 Prayer – if it is true that the God of the Bible is who he says he is, asking him to intervene most definitely makes a difference
#2 Truth – if there is truth in this world, it will last and nothing can change that. For example, if it is true that one should work for 6 days and rest on the 7th, it is a truth that can be proven not only by experience or the Bible, but through research.
#3 Example – If you claim to follow Jesus and live accordingly, you will have to swim against the tide. If Biblical principles on life really work, then your life is living proof.
#4 Group Solidarity – significant change happens through small groups of dedicated people. Jesus taught his 12 students the basics and let them run with it. Through them the Church has spread to every continent. There is immense strength in a small group of people who are dedicated and convinced of their cause.

Women of Worth

I was in a women’s meeting where a Christian counselor spoke about self esteem. Basic stuff about how your self esteem is built and how people around you build you up or damage you.

The most telling part of the session came when she said she’d now tell us how she felt about us.
You could hear a pin drop. She went on to speak truth:
‘you are loved’
‘you are beautiful’
‘you are valuable’

It was so quiet in the room, the women were hanging on to her every word. And I realized how starved every woman was to hear this. And how little encouragement these ladies get. Life without encouragement is draining.

Speaking well of someone, giving a compliment or encouraging someone, those words can revive a worn out soul.
The self esteem of those around us depend on our words.