Last week, we established that our perspective shapes the way we see the world. We can view life as a minefield full of problems or as a mission field full of opportunities to love, serve, and point people toward Christ.

Once we embrace a mission-field perspective, the next step is becoming an intentional influencer.

One of the greatest examples of godly influence in Scripture is Daniel. Taken captive as a young man and placed in a pagan culture, Daniel rose to positions of leadership and influence under multiple Babylonian and Persian rulers. He didn't gain influence through power, popularity, or self-promotion. He became influential because of the character he consistently demonstrated.

Daniel's life teaches us that influence is not about position—it's about character.

Anchor Passages

Daniel 6:3–4 (NKJV) 

3 Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm. 4 So the governors and satraps sought to find somecharge against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find no charge or fault, because he was faithful; nor was there any error or fault found in him. 

Daniel stood out because of his exceptional qualities. These same qualities can help us become influential for Christ in our homes, schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods.