INFLUENCED // SEPTEMBER 11, 2023
In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it.
Daniel 1:1
The Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar beseiged Jerusalem and enslaved its people. He took the influencers -- those in royalty and with nobility, aka the brightest minds and the best looking -- to prepare and train them to serve him as king, turning those who would be disloyal slaves into loyal subjects. For three years, they learned Babylonian language, literature and way of life.
Culture today lifts up athletes as celebrities, but just because someone has a gift, doesn't mean they should guide our lives. Just because they can hit a ball or act doesn't mean they're qualified to give relationship advice or spiritual guidance. Modeling a celebrity's hairstyle is one thing, but their lifestyle is another. Instead, remember that God is our potter, and we are his clay. He created us with destiny and purpose in mind, so who better to give us guidance on every aspect of our lives?
How's your life? Your marriage? Your relationships? Influencers may have great life hacks or fashion sense, but no one knows you or your destiny the way your creator does. So how much time do you spend scrolling through what influencers have to say versus soaking in all God wants to share with you? Put your trust in him, his love for you and his plan for your life. Honor his position as your guide by making a commitment today to give him your ear instead of listening to what media or influencers have to say. You can be led by God above, not the world around you.