Read the Bible
Today's Devotion
From Dr. David Jeremiah
Circle of Influence
September 18, 2026
Then word came to the king of Nineveh; and he arose from his throne and laid aside his robe, covered himself with sackcloth and sat in ashes. And he caused it to be proclaimed and published throughout Nineveh.
Jonah 3:6-7
Recommended Reading:
Esther 4:12-1412 So they told Mordecai Esther’s words.13 And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: “Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king’s palace any more than all the other Jews. 14 For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
Esther 4:12-14
The Bible has numerous examples of people who had great influence upon kings and those in authority. Joseph served in the courts of Egypt. Daniel influenced the king of Babylon. Esther saved the Jews in Persia by her request to the king. The apostle Paul influenced King Agrippa with his personal testimony. And Jonah brought a prophetic message to Nineveh that caused the king to repent before God.
It is easy for us to discount the influence we may have for Christ with those in our circle of influence. We may not have the opportunity to speak before kings and rulers, but God can still use us to bring a godly influence into the lives of others. That was Jesus’ point when He said that we are to be salt and light in the world—that others may see our good works and ultimately give glory to God (Matthew 5:13-16).
Pray that God would give you the opportunity to be salt and light wherever you go.
The most serious thing in all the world…is this matter of personal influence.
George Truett
