I decided to take a course called “Hot Pursuit”. It’s a course designed to chase your dreams and passions. I’m finding it quite interesting. The homework this past week was to interview two people, one close to 70 years old and one that is 20 years old. I was truly amazed by their answers.

They both talked about pursuing education. One woman already had her Masters and the younger one was in the midst of pursuing hers. They had a fierce love for God and their faith is the foundation in their lives.

One question was, “who has influenced you the most in your life?” The younger woman explained that her mom was the most influential person in her life. It’s what she said that made me sit upright and take note. She said “My mom was gentle, but we knew. Gentleness is power without volume.” BAM! That hit me like a ton of bricks but softened me to the point of tears.

Gentleness of the heart is a fruit of the Spirit.

“But the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit within you is divine love in all its varied expressions:

Joy that overflows,

Peace that subdues,

Patience that endures,

Kindness in action,

A life full of virtue,

Faith that prevails,

Gentleness of the heart, and

Strength of spirit.

Never set the law above these qualities, for they are meant to be limitless.

Galatians 5:22-23 TPT

As a mom, I know I have used power with a lot of volume. Now to think we have the gifts of the Holy Spirit running thru us and to use them constantly can make such an impact especially in a child’s life.

To become a person of influence we need to lead and to guide, but what does this look like? Certainly is not to push our agenda. We need to add value to others. We need to truly listen, not waiting to reply or talk about ourselves, but to just listen. We need to be able to pray and answer with the Holy Spirit’s direction. This isn’t just for people we meet or we work with but also our children.

Knowledge is power. Wisdom is power. Living a life constantly learning and growing will help us become women the world needs. I know and have seen just shoving our opinions down someone’s throats will backfire, but loving answers turn away wrath.

“My dearest brothers and sisters, take this to heart. Be quick to listen, but slow to speak. And be slow to become angry.”

James 1:19 TPT

I challenge us all to be filled with the gifts of the Spirit and become a person of influence. We can and will impact lives.

God Bless.