And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works (Hebrews 10:24).
Other than Jesus, God’s greatest gift to women
is our power to influence others. We have been influencing men since the Garden
of Eden. Eve influenced Adam to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and
Evil. Whether it is for right or wrong, women have the power to influence men
emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Jezebel influenced her husband, Ahab,
as well as her children, and a vast majority of Israel to rebel against God by
turning their hearts to worship other gods (1 Kings 21:25). And because of her
influence, God denounced many of his servants that were called to be rulers
over Israel. Abigail influenced King David not to kill her husband and her
household through her hospitality and words of discretion (1 Samuel 25).
Delilah influenced Samson to give up the secret to his God-given strength
(Judges 16), which ultimately led to his downfall. Esther influenced King
Ahasuerus to spare the life of her people (Esther 7).
I listened to the testimony of a man sharing how
he spoke words of encouragement and life into his newborn, who was refusing to
eat due to a birth defect. He was the only one that could get his son to eat.
During his son’s feedings, he would speak life into him. His son healed after
gaining a considerable amount of weight. When asked what made him think to do
that, he said his wife speaks life into him, and her words make him strong and
capable when he’s feeling weak. So let’s use our gift of influence to incite
others to do good works, for their benefit and the edifying of God’s kingdom.
Let’s not use our influence to manipulate others into getting what we want.
Ladies’ if you are unsatisfied with your home life and the garden next door is
looking lusher, ask yourself, “How is my influence impacting my spouse and my
children? Is my influence manipulative, controlling, inspiring, or encouraging?
Are my words supportive, thoughtful, considerate, kind, full of wisdom, and
compassion? (Proverbs 31:26). Are my actions benevolent, affectionate, and
hospitable?” The woman whose garden is burgeoning is influencing those around
her to do good deeds; thus, her garden is more fruitful. If you plant good
seeds, you will reap a plentiful harvest.
Before you begin your day, ask Jesus to help you
use your words and actions to influence those around you to perform good works.
XOXO,
Jay
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