Pat Propster: Voices of influence

How many voices of influence do you think we have in a lifetime? It’s got to be hundreds and hundreds. So, what voices do we allow to influence us the most? In most cases, in order to be influenced, one must be open to receive it.
Though hearing something over and over often has a way of making an imprint. That’s how commercials work, as well as a few other things. That being said, why do we allow certain voices to influence us and other voices not? Answer: Choice. We have a choice in the matter of influence.
What voice would you say you most often hear? The obvious answer would be our own. It’s the voice that we hear the most, it’s the voice that’s in our head during a conversation and long after it. It’s the voice that reminds us over and over again of the, “couldas, wouldas, shouldas,” often leading to disappointment. It’s the voice that tells you “that went well,” or that nagging voice that constantly reminds us of the negatives in life. Remember it’s a choice to be influenced. Choose wisely, the Grail Knight in the Indiana Jones said.
The Bible teaches us that we need to take our thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ. It also teaches us that nothing is impossible without God, and we can do all things through Christ Jesus. These are favorite verses that we all go to when giving others encouraging influence on the way to victory. Do we preach these things to ourselves in the same manner?
The Psalmist’s own influencing voice found in Psalm 42 speaks of about this captive thoughts principal.
“Why are you cast down, Oh my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.”
The Psalmist learned to use his influential thought life to encourage himself in times of despair or negativity by the remembrance of the Lord, his word and his countenance.
The most reliable and sound voice that we can listen to is the voice of the Lord heard in the Holy Bible. His is a voice that we can trust, rely on, and adhere to. His is a voice that directs our paths, encourages our present, and strengthens our resolve and hope in the future.
The Bible teaches us Christians that we are to encourage one another while it is call today. May we do so knowing that we are influences to others.
Let us keep in mind the lessons that we have learned in James chapter 3 and Psalm 19 as we do. May the words of our mouth and the meditation of a heart be acceptable in thy sight oh Lord. May our words be bridled, may they steer as a rudder on the ship, may they ignite fires of encouragement only, may they be words there are a cool drink go to fresh streams of time spent wisely with the Lord.
May the Lord bless and keep you,
May the Lord‘s face shine upon you,

Pat Propster is lead pastor at Calvary Chapel Carson City.