How Others Will Follow

The Apostle Paul and his traveling companions sailed to Thessalonica on his second missionary journey. According to Acts 17:1-9, they were there three Sabbath days. A lot happened in those three weeks. Paul made a striking statement in his first epistle to them: “And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord…” (I Thess. 1:6).  The Thessalonians followed Paul as they followed Christ. They imitated Paul, copied his example and believed his faith.

All of us to one degree or another influence others. It is a good thing when our Biblical instruction and Christlike example become guideposts for others. But how do you become the kind of person that other people follow? Here are some thoughts from I Thessalonians 1:

·        Be serving God yourself (v. 1)

·        Pray for and give thanks for those you want to influence (v. 2)

·        Recognize the right things they are doing (v. 3)

·        Speak the Word of God to help them (v. 5)

·        Set a good example (v. 6)

·        Be Scriptural in your dealings with them (v. 9)

Essentially, walk with the Lord, love those you are leading, and minister the Word of God. Out of your fellowship with God comes your ability to influence others for Christ as you speak the truths of Scripture.