“For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.” Romans 14:7
Now, here is an impossibility concerning you. Of course, there are many things impossible with us, such as flying unaided or breathing underwater. But this passage reminds us of something we often tend to think possible. It concerns our contact with other people. One may live by himself, keep to himself, or try to be one of the “unknowns”. However, regardless of how hard one tries, he cannot live solely to himself. We all have and do have contact with others. We are known by someone because we have and do come into contact with them. In fact, we are more well known than we realize. More importantly, those who know us have an opinion of us from our words and actions. Whether good or bad, positive or negative, that opinion is there. Here we are reminded of this truth and instructed to be mindful of the responsibility that comes with being known.
We are by nature a social being. Though we hardly give it a thought, we depend on seeing others. And each time we see someone, we leave an impression of some kind upon them. The world with which we come in contact makes an impression upon us, and we in turn, return the favor. Such is our constitution. Each of us–consciously or unconsciously– will exert an influence on those around us. And that influence is a footprint that remains long after we have made it.
Consider the footprints of our influence. It is permanent. Once we contact someone, either by word or by behavior, this impression cannot be recalled or undone. If you throw a stone into a pond, a little wave is created. This concentric wave ripples outward, ever widening and increasing until it breaks the other shore. No matter how much we would want to or try to get that stone back, or reverse it’s rippling, it cannot be done. So it is with our every word and deed. It is in our authority to determine what we say and do, but that authority stops there. We cannot control the influence that follows. Whether for good or bad, our influence survives. It outlives us and will be found working long after we are gone.
We bear the sole responsibility for our influence. Regardless of how provoked you might be, your new nature should override your carnal impulses. How often do we boast of being under His Lordship and enjoying our new life only to revert so quickly to our old emotions and behaviors. It is true we have well learned how to be a sinner. How we need to study His Word daily, to be tutored by His Spirit, and then to apply these teachings in everyday practice. It shouldn’t be as difficult as it seems, for after all, we are born again. As followers of Christ, we are leaders of others. We are watched and looked to for genuineness in what we profess. The old adages “I can’t help and don’t care what others may think”, and “ I’m one who isn’t afraid to speak my mind” cannot always be followed if you truly live for the Lord. These stem from the evil root of pride that remains unremoved in our heart’s garden. It is another attempt to live to yourself which results in failure all around. The Bible cautions us to “consider thyself, lest thou also be tempted…”
Restraint and patience must rule our hearts. God is happy to help us if we but acknowledge our weaknesses and call on Him. Christian growth demands continual self evaluation, change and correction.
Finally, we are responsible to God for our influence. Our footprints are tracked by Him. He keeps record of each one, good and bad. Verse 8 reminds us that, in living or in dying, we are the Lord’s. We fall under His rule because we belong to Him. Verse 10 rings loud and clear: “ for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.” Judging or treating our brother wrongfully should not even happen, seeing that we both shall give account one day. If “the old account is settled,” then let it remain so. Don’t start a new account. Debt is mighty hard to get out of once one goes beyond your means. Certainly we cannot afford to become spiritually bankrupt through foolish carelessness and pride.
You are not a hermit. No such person exists in God’s kingdom. Your salvation was given to you for your own benefit as well as the benefit of all those who lack it in your life. Do not waste your precious life trying to live to yourself, but use each moment to be a blessing to your world. It is for sure we will be something to them.
Lord, help me….help us all to live for the sake of others. Only then will we experience the true joy of thy salvation.
Adwolfe Freewill Baptist Church 