Having a Christian influence is difficult sometimes...

Proverbs 10:17 (NIV) - "He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray."

Discipline is not only important to us, but also to those who are influenced by our actions. So often we undervalue the impact of our personal decisions on others. But God has placed each of us in a circle of influence to be a blessing and a redemptive influence for those around us. To choose what is foolish, to ignore godly correction, not only jeopardizes our own future, but also the future of others.

I read this the other day and decided this was something very close to my heart. When Christians behave badly we influence others in several ways. The first is that we may make unsaved people think we are hypocrites. Second, we may make other Christians think it's okay to say and behave certain ways that are not Godly or how God would have us behave. Lastly and most importantly, we may miss an opportunity to witness to someone that otherwise would have been influenced in a positive way by our Christian ways.

Remember, not only is God watching every moment of our lives, but so are others that just might be looking to you for Godly guidance. Love everyone all the time, even when you don't want to and you'll understand what I am saying.