So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. (NLT)

Just the other day, I sat in the office of an oncology clinic, nervously awaiting my appointment. After tests, blood work, doctor visits, and surgery, I was finally waiting to find out pathology results that seemed imminently impactful. Having the hope that comes from Jesus at the forefront of my mind, the gravity of the situation was still weighing on me. But in the time leading up to this moment, something great was happening: people were rallying around me in prayer and with reminders of God’s goodness – that He will never leave. That I am seen, known, and loved by my Creator. That encouragement, that hope – it made me realize, no matter what the result of that doctor’s office was, if there was breath in my lungs then God wasn’t done with me on this Earth yet.

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God has given me many gifts that I don’t deserve in life. That day, God gave me another great gift: the pathology came back benign. In that moment as I breathed a sigh of relief, I realized that this was another challenging but important time in my life – God was teaching me to depend on him more deeply and giving me a taste of things to help see others better. It's moments like those that remind me of the impact that God has on every part of my life and the impact of those with whom he has so generously surrounded me.  

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How have you tangibly felt the impact that we can have on others as we seek to become more like Jesus?

As you consider the context of this series and how God uses his people to impact the world, what are you seeing in today’s verse? For me, I think of the opportunities that are right in front of me to encourage others and share with them the hope I have. At work, the store, church, in my life group, at home, and even in that doctor’s office, I am having an impact on those around me. And it is either bringing life or causing death. What a powerful thing to wield by simply existing! But also, what a great privilege it is to impact someone’s life for the better.

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Your impact on others, no matter how great or insignificant, has the opportunity to change their day or maybe even their eternity. Thinking back to those simple words in today’s verse, what is the impact you are having on others?  

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I encourage you to seek first the impact that God wants to have on you. If you aren’t in a life group, consider, what could be the impact of living in community with other believers? Now, let all the wonderful ways that God is working in you also work through you to create a Kingdom impact in your home, in Alaska, and on Earth.

Father, I am so grateful for the impact that you have on me. I’m thankful that you have used everything around me, including life’s circumstances. Whether it's trials or triumphs, you use it all to work in us. Would you please help my impact on my family, community, and beyond bring hope and encouragement. Let it all be for your glory and none of my own. AMEN!