The Night with a Mosquito
History is in many ways a story of influence. Leadership is about influence.
Everyone influences someone. Therefore, in a sense, everyone is a leader. Sociologists tell us that even the most introverted individual will influence 10,000 other people during his or her lifetime. We all influence one another in all sorts of ways – from what to have for lunch and what films to watch, to more important matters of truth and ethics.
My life has been influenced by so many people – my parents, teachers, friends, and family. Just as I have been influenced by others, inevitably what I do and say will influence others for good or ill.
As the African proverb puts it, ‘If you think you’re too small to make a difference, you haven’t spent the night with a mosquito.’ The mosquito makes a difference in an annoying way, but the principle is the same. One person can stop a great injustice. One person can be a voice for truth. One person’s kindness can save a life. Each person matters.
How can you maximize your influence and use that influence for good?
Psalm 96:1-13
For the good of everyone
God chose Israel. He blessed the people of Israel in a special way. His purpose was not that they should feel proud and superior to others. Rather, it was that they should be a blessing to the whole world (Genesis 12:3). They were blessed to be a blessing. They were called to use their influence for the good of all nations.
Now, God has chosen us, the church, to be a blessing to all people. You are blessed to be a blessing.
This psalm has a multi-national focus. It proclaims the wonders and blessings of God to everyone. You are called to bless through:
Worship
It is interesting to note in passing that worship should be creative and include innovation: They sang ‘a brand-new song’ (Psalm 96:1, MSG).
Witness
‘Shout the news of his victory from sea to sea,
Take the news of his glory to the lost,
News of his wonders to one and all,
Get out the message – God Rules!’ (v.2–3,10a, MSG).
