Influence Definition: Influence is the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone else.

Influence : God seeks to transform me to be like Him!  (2 Corinthians 3:18) And we…reflect the Lord's glory, being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.  (Romans 8:29) For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son.  (Colossians 3:10) … put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.  (Galatians 4:19) My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,  (1 John 3:2) Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

How God transforms us Events *People * How do I find the right influencers? His Word

Flattery will get you… in trouble  (Proverbs 5:3) For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil;  (Proverbs 26:24, 25, 28) A malicious man disguises himself with his lips, but in his heart he harbors deceit. {25} Though his speech is charming, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart. …{28} A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin.

Pick friends wisely  (Proverbs 12:26) A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.  (1 Corinthians 15:33) Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character."  “Who we love shapes who we become” St. Claire of Assisi.

The Influence of parents  (Proverbs 1:8) Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching.  (Proverbs 4:10) Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many.  (Proverbs 13:1) A wise son heeds his father's instruction, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.  (Proverbs 23:22) Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.

Finding Wise and Godly Influencers (Mentors/Friends/Teachers) 1. Commit to regular fellowship in church 2. Invest in a small group or two 3. Identify key people worth learning from 4. Develop a natural relationship where you will be exposed to their influence (Hebrews 10:24-25) And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. {25} Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.