Beech Tree News Network

While Joshua and the people prepared to enter Canaan, he commanded two spies to go into Jericho and return with information (Josh. 2:1). After entering the city; they ended up in the house of Rahab, the harlot and received valuable information about Jericho. Rahab told the spies that those in Jericho had been aware of their exploits for the past forty years! Also, the people have been scared of them for the past forty years! She said she already knew the Lord gave them this land. Jehovah is recognized by them as God “in Heaven above and in earth beneath” (Josh. 2:9-11).

I am fascinated by the sphere and power of influence, and this statement is one of the reasons why. When we go back to Exodus 14 and witness the parting of the Red Sea, we read nothing where Moses or anyone else entertained the idea that maybe what they did would sow fear in the hearts of the Canaanites! When we read that text, we see they were only worried about escape! When they wandered and later conquered kings Sihon and Og, we read nothing about how they hoped these victories would scare the Canaanites, too. Yet, they did! This was a result of doing what God said. God’s words were coming true when He told them that the enemies would approach one way and “flee seven ways” (Deut. 28:7). In the case of Jericho, they were already afraid before the war started!

While Israel was busy doing their work, others were watching. Yes, Israel sinned before God at times, but the enemies saw these people working together and defeating an empire! That got their attention. In Joshua, chapter six, when we read God’s words that He had given the Israelites Jericho, let us make sure and remember that it wasn’t just in this moment that it happened. Rather, these people had been “softened up” for a while now (Josh. 2:11).

What has this to do with us in the 21st century? Simply put, our influence is no less powerful today! Jesus compared our influence to salt and light (Matt. 5:13-16). The apostles added that our influence is often felt even after our deaths (I Tim. 5:24-25; Rev. 14:13). What we say and do can leave an imprint on people that cannot be washed away!

Friend, examine yourself (II Cor. 13:5). Are you leaving an impression on people that you are God’s servant or Satan’s? As was said of Peter, does your speech betray you (Matt. 26:73; Mk. 14:70)? This can be positive or negative depending on the kind of words you are speaking (Eph. 4:31-32; Col. 4:6)! As was said of Peter and John, can people tell you have been with Jesus (Acts 4:13)?

The influence of parents is seen in the children. Is the influence of our Father in Heaven showing in us as we interact with people (Matt. 5:16; Col. 3:17)? Or is our “father the devil” (Jn. 8:44) showing through in our words and actions?

Influence is a powerful tool. We know it because the influence of the Israelites was felt by those in Jericho for a generation! It is no less powerful today. I pray we use our influence wisely. 

- You are invited to visit the Caneyville church of Christ. Times of services: Sun.: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 5:00 pm; Wed.: 7:00 pm. Website: http://caneyvillechurchofchrist.com Tune in to our radio program 101.5 FM at 5:30 am, Mon-Fri. Questions? Call: (270) 589-4167