FROM THE DIRECTOR’S DESK ~ In today’s hyper-connected digital age, everyone is being influenced! The crucial question for Christ-followers is: are we being influenced by the world or are we being influenced by God? We are constantly being shaped by voices, trends, and ideologies — what the Bible calls "the world"— or we are intentionally allowing the Holy Spirit and the Word of God to shape us? 

The challenge is to be in the world without being conformed to it, transforming our lives into a living testimony that influences others for the Kingdom of God (Romans12:2). The world is a loud, persistent voice that promises fulfillment through materialism, vanity, and self-centeredness. It influences us through Hollywood, athletes, social media, peer pressure, and consumer culture. When we prioritize worldly trends, we become “well-adjusted to our culture” rather than being transformed by our Heavenly Father. The danger lies in compromising our Christian, counter-cultural values to fit in. If we consume more social media than God’s Word, we are being shaped by the world rather than Scripture, reducing our effectiveness to be salt and light. “You are to influence them; do not let them influence you,” (Jeremiah 15:19b). 

Being an influencer for Christ is not about building a large social media following, but about having a Christian influence through a life of love, obedience, and service. It is a mandate to make Jesus known in our workplaces, families, and communities. True godly influence is often quiet and action-oriented — one of extending mercy and grace, showing compassion, and serving others. It is about our actions and conversations in daily living that points others toward Jesus. To be an effective influencer for Christ, we must immerse ourselves in Scripture, actively engage in prayer, and stay connected to a local, Bible-based community. When we make Jesus the loudest voice in our lives, our character becomes consistent, and our lives naturally shine as light in a dark world. With that, we must realize our lives are on display. We can either allow the world to shape us into its image or allow Christ to transform us, making us vessels of His grace. ~ God’s blessings, protection, and favor to all.

Benny Nolen
Director
Joseph's Storehouse