Read Numbers 1.
As I slogged my way through Numbers, I felt like God spoke to me really clearly, specifically through a list of Israelite names for a census tally. God identified 12 men by name—Shelumiels, Elishamas, Abidans, and Ahiezers are the names of just a few—to help Moses and Aaron count the number of men available to serve in the army. The descriptions of these significant men really stood out to me:
- The head of his family (Numbers 1:4)
- Men appointed from the community (Numbers 1:16)
- Leaders of their ancestral tribes (Numbers 1:16)
- Heads of the clans of Israel (Numbers 1:16)
Understanding the Power of Influence
In a way, these men’s identities were inherited from their family, but they were also earned. God specifically appointed these 12 men for this task, and their identity gave them enormous influence over large numbers of people.
The Power of Influence Today
Where I now minister, there’s a great chance that one very influential leader choosing to trust in Jesus will lead to his family and networks following suit in unprecedented numbers. I’ve recently met two Muslims who wield tremendous influence over their family and relationship circles. It is exciting to imagine the far-reaching impact it would have for the Kingdom of God if they started following Jesus!
Leaders in Your Life
Who are the leaders in your circle that God could use to influence large numbers of people to Christ?
God, please show us the Shelumiels, Elishamas, Abidans, and Ahiezers in our worlds and lead them to faith in Your Son. Amen.
-from a missionary to Russia
