Investments
Investments in others always have an impact. Jesus said it this way in Luke 6:38, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
The people I remember the most in my life were ones who took time to invest in me. These were my parents, grandparents and other relatives. Then there were teachers, coaches and other adults who took an interest in me and poured into my life as I grew older.
I remember a drill sergeant in basic training and other leaders in the military who took time to give of themselves and the impact it had on me as a young man. Spiritually, there were pastors, elders and church members who greatly impacted my life. Included in the list of people who influenced me were teachers throughout my Adventist education. Later in my life, as my career took shape, there were conference presidents and other conference leaders who took time to invest in me; that made a difference in my professional and spiritual development.
I believe that the time and energy we invest in others are like seeds we gently plant that can eventually bear fruit in a changed and strengthened life. Jesus poured Himself into the first disciples. They in turn did the same for others and so on, down to our day.
Consider what an impact this has had on our world. Many people have poured into our lives to help make us who we are today. Of course, it was by the power and inspiration of the Holy Spirit. We now have chances each day to seek to impact and influence others by a life of giving and self-sacrifice. Let’s pray for the Holy Spirit to bring to our minds people who He wants us to influence for God and eternity. I believe He will answer that prayer and give us the grace to do it.
By James Shires, President