Seventh-Day Adventist Devotional For Children: “Don’t Throw Your Influence Under The Bus”

DAILY BREAD – DEVOTIONAL FOR CHILDREN

EASTERN NIGERIA UNION CONFERENCE CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES

Friday, November 24, 2023

Title: Don’t Throw Your Influence Under the Bus

Text: Titus 3:1-8

As children, we may think that we don’t have much influence on the world around us. But the truth is, every action we take and every word we speak has an impact on those around us. That’s why it’s important to remember the words of Titus 3:1-8.

In these verses, we are reminded to be obedient to those in authority over us, to speak kindly to others, and to avoid arguments and quarrels.
We are also reminded of the amazing grace of God, which has saved us and given us a new life. When we live according to these principles, we are not only pleasing to God, but we also have a positive influence on those around us. People will see the way we live and the way we treat others, and they will be drawn to the love and grace of God that we have experienced.

But when we throw our influence under the bus by disobeying authority, speaking harshly to others, and causing arguments, we are not only hurting ourselves, but we are also hurting those around us. We are not reflecting the love and grace of God, and we are not being the positive influence that we were created to be.

So let’s remember to live according to the principles of Titus 3:1-8. Let’s be obedient to those in authority over us, speak kindly to others, and avoid arguments and quarrels. And let’s never throw our influence under the bus, but instead use it to bring glory to God and to be a positive influence on those around us.

Thought for Reflection
Influence is like a precious gift that we can use to make a positive difference in the lives of others. When we choose to follow God’s ways and live according to His Word, we become a reflection of His love and grace. Just as God saved us through His mercy, we have the opportunity to extend that same mercy to others. Let us remember that our influence can either build others up or tear them down. So, let’s choose to be a light, spreading kindness, love, and goodness wherever we go. By doing so, we honor God and bring hope to those around us. Remember, don’t throw your influence under the bus. Use it wisely and let it shine for God’s glory!

Song
This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine, (shine)
This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine, (shine)
This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine,
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Every where I go, I’m going to let it shine, (shine)
Every where I go, I’m going to let it shine, (shine)
Every where I go, I’m going to let it shine,
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for the gift of influence. Help us to understand that our words and actions have the power to impact others. Teach us to use our influence for good, to be obedient, peaceable, considerate, and gentle towards everyone. Fill our hearts with kindness and love, just as You have shown us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Guide us to be a light in this world, shining Your love and grace to those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.