Introduction* Proverbs 22:24-25

Like it or not, the way I behave is affecting people.I may be having a bad influence.* Matthew 18:4-6 * Romans 14:13 * I Corinthians 5:6-8 – One sinner can have a tremendous effect on the entire congregation. * Even if I think I am hiding my sin, my influence on others is not as good as it should be. * I Corinthians 8:9 * II Timothy 2:14 – Wrangling with words could ruin others.

But there is enormous potential for good influence!* Matthew 5:13-16 * Philippians 4:8-9 – Can I tell other people to copy what they’ve seen me do?

Three areas to think about …Joy* Acts 13:47-49 * Often, we can do our best teaching when we are at the lowest point in our lives.

Humility* I Peter 5:5 * Proverbs 11:2 * Acts 26:1, 9, 15, 19 – Paul humbly admitted his previous mistakes. * I Peter 2:12, 15

Healthy relationships* I Timothy 3:4-5 – How did the man manage his family relationships? * Ephesians 6:1 * Proverbs 17:17; 18:24

“Your life as a Christian should make non-believers question their disbelief in God.” – Dietrich Bonhoeffer