Influence is a powerful force that shapes our lives in countless ways. In the pages of the Bible, we find both cautionary tales and uplifting examples of the impact of influence. Join us as we look into the enlightening Bible verses about influence and learn how to use our own influence wisely and positively. These verses reveal the importance of our actions and words in the lives of others.
Also Study: Bible Verses About Finding Yourself
Bible Verses About Influence
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of being a positive influence on others. As Christians, we are called to live in a way that reflects the light of Christ. Through our actions and good deeds, we can bring glory to God and inspire others to do the same.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse reminds us of the influence our companions can have on us. Surrounding ourselves with wise and godly people can help us grow spiritually and make wise choices. On the other hand, being close to foolish or ungodly individuals can lead to harm and poor decisions.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”
This verse serves as a warning against the negative influence of bad company. Associating with those who have corrupt character can lead us astray and compromise our own moral values. It is important to be discerning in choosing our friends and to be cautious of the influence they have on us.
Proverbs 22:24-25
“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”
This verse cautions against forming close relationships with individuals who have a hot temper and a quick to anger. Their negative traits can rub off on us, leading to potential harm and entrapment. It is wise to choose friends who exhibit self-control and have a positive influence on our lives.
2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
This verse emphasizes the importance of being cautious in our associations. As Christians, we are encouraged to surround ourselves with fellow believers who share our values and faith. A close relationship with an unbeliever can lead to compromise and dilution of our own faith.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse highlights the positive influence that strong and mutually edifying friendships can have on our lives. Just as iron sharpens iron, our interactions with wise and godly friends can help us grow and become better individuals. It is important to seek relationships that challenge and inspire us to be the best version of ourselves.
1 Timothy 4:12
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
This verse encourages young Christians to be a positive influence on others through their words, actions, love, faith, and purity. Regardless of age, we all have the ability to set an example for others and lead them closer to God. It reminds us to live in a way that brings honor to our faith and inspires those around us.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse reminds us of the influence our companions can have on us. Surrounding ourselves with wise and godly people can help us grow spiritually and make wise choices. On the other hand, being close to foolish or ungodly individuals can lead to harm and poor decisions.
Matthew 5:13-14
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
In these verses, Jesus uses the metaphors of salt and light to describe the influence Christians should have in the world. As salt, we are called to bring flavor and preservation to society. As light, we are meant to shine in the darkness, revealing truth and pointing others to Christ. Our influence should be visible, impactful, and transformative.
Galatians 6:1
“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.”
This verse highlights the responsibility we have as Christians to influence others positively when they stray into sin. Instead of judging or condemning, we are called to gently restore and guide them back onto the right path. However, it also serves as a reminder to be cautious and watchful of our own actions and temptations.
Proverbs 16:7
“When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.”
This verse reminds us that when we live in a way that pleases the Lord, it can have a positive influence even on our enemies. Our godly conduct and attitudes can help resolve conflicts and promote peace, as we demonstrate Christ’s love and forgiveness.
John 13:34-35
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
This verse emphasizes the power of love as a defining characteristic of Christians. Our love for one another should be so genuine and selfless that it becomes a testimony to the world. Through our love, we can have a positive influence on others and draw them closer to Christ.
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
This verse highlights the importance of treating others with kindness and generosity. It reminds us that to despise or mistreat our neighbors is a sin. Instead, we should seek to be a blessing by showing compassion and generosity towards those in need. Our actions of love can have a profound influence on the lives of others.
1 Peter 3:15
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”
This verse encourages us to always be ready to share the reason for our hope in Christ. Our words and testimony can have a powerful influence on those around us. However, it is important to approach this with gentleness and respect, recognizing that our goal is to point others to Christ and not to win arguments.
Proverbs 3:27
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due when it is in your power to act.”
This verse challenges us to use our influence and resources to do good for others whenever we have the ability to do so. Whether it is through acts of kindness, generosity, or service, we should not withhold goodness from others when we have the means to help. Our good deeds can inspire and influence others towards acts of kindness as well.
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
This verse reminds us to be mindful of our words and use them to build others up. Our speech has the power to either encourage or discourage, to inspire or tear down. By speaking with kindness, truth, and wisdom, we can influence others in a positive and impactful way.
Proverbs 25:11
“A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”
This verse describes the beauty and impact of well-timed and wise words. When we speak with grace, knowledge, and love, our words can have a profound influence on those who hear them. They can bring comfort, wisdom, and encouragement, like precious golden apples in a setting of silver.
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”
This verse encourages us to let the message of Christ permeate every aspect of our lives. When we allow His words and teachings to dwell richly within us, we will be able to share wisdom and encouragement with others. By teaching, admonishing, and worshiping together, we can have a positive influence on each other’s spiritual growth.
Proverbs 25:12
“Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is the rebuke of a wise judge to a listening ear.”
This verse underscores the impact of wise and constructive criticism. When given with gentleness, humility, and love, a rebuke from a wise and discerning individual can have a profound influence on the one who listens. It can lead to growth, understanding, and positive change.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
These verses emphasize the importance of community and encouraging one another in the faith. By gathering together and spurring each other on towards love and good deeds, we can have a positive influence on one another’s spiritual growth. The fellowship and support we offer can be a source of strength and inspiration.
Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
This verse speaks to the influence of true friendship. A true friend is willing to speak the truth in love, even if it means delivering difficult or uncomfortable wounds. Their words are trustworthy because they have our best interest at heart. In comparison, an enemy may offer insincere compliments and flattery, leading us astray.
Matthew 18:15
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of addressing sin within the Christian community with a spirit of restoration. When we confront a fellow believer in a loving and respectful manner, there is an opportunity for growth and reconciliation. By pointing out faults and offering a path towards redemption, we can have a positive and transformative influence on others.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
This verse highlights the power of gentle and compassionate words. When we respond to anger or conflict with kindness and calmness, we can de-escalate the situation and promote understanding. Our measured and peaceful responses can have a positive influence on others, inspiring them to respond in a similar manner.
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
This verse calls believers to engage in conversations that are marked by grace, wisdom, and discernment. Our words should reflect the character of Christ and demonstrate His love to others. By speaking with grace, we can positively influence those we interact with and effectively share the gospel.
Proverbs 16:23-24
“The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction. Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
These verses emphasize the power of wise and gracious words. When our hearts are filled with wisdom, our speech becomes prudently guided. As a result, our words can bring healing, encouragement, and transformation to those who hear them. They can be like sweet honey to the soul, nourishing and uplifting.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of encouragement within the body of Christ. By intentionally building each other up through affirming words, support, and acts of kindness, we can positively influence the faith, confidence, and perseverance of our fellow believers.
Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
This verse speaks to the loyalty and support that true friends offer in both good times and challenging seasons. A genuine friendship grounded in love can provide comfort, strength, and guidance during times of adversity. Such relationships have a positive and lasting influence on our lives.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of active listening and self-control in our interactions with others. By listening attentively, speaking thoughtfully, and exercising patience, we can cultivate healthy and meaningful relationships. Our ability to truly hear others and respond in love can have a powerful and positive influence on their lives.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse highlights the positive influence that strong and mutually edifying friendships can have on our lives. Just as iron sharpens iron, our interactions with wise and godly friends can help us grow and become better individuals. It is important to seek relationships that challenge and inspire us to be the best version of ourselves.
Psalm 1:1-3
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”
This passage speaks to the influence of the company we keep. By avoiding the counsel of the wicked and sinful, and instead delighting in God’s law, we are positioned for spiritual growth and fruitfulness. When we meditate on God’s word and surround ourselves with godly influences, we can prosper and positively impact others.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This verse reminds us that every aspect of our lives should be lived to bring glory to God. Whatever we do—whether in speech, actions, or interactions—our ultimate goal should be to represent Christ well and influence others towards Him. When we live with this perspective, our lives become a witness and testimony to God’s goodness and grace.
Prayer For Influence
Dear Heavenly Father,
I come before you with a humble heart, recognizing that you are the ultimate source of wisdom, power, and influence. I desire to be a positive influence in the world, to make a difference in the lives of those around me, and to bring glory to your name.
Lord, I ask for your guidance and wisdom. Help me discern your will and purpose for my life. Give me the strength to resist negative influences and to walk in the path of righteousness. Fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I may bear the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
I pray that you would use me as an instrument of your love and grace, that I may have a positive impact on my family, friends, colleagues, and all those I encounter. Let your light shine through me, Lord, so that others may be drawn to you.
Grant me the courage to speak your truth with love and compassion, and may my actions align with your teachings. Help me to be a vessel for your influence, spreading your message of hope and salvation to a world in need.
I surrender my desires and ambitions to your divine plan, knowing that your influence is far greater than any human effort. Thank you for the privilege of being your child and for allowing me to be a part of your work in the world.
In Jesus’ name, I pray.
Amen.