I got a very kind note from a friend the other day. She told me how much she enjoys reading my devotional books, and also sharing those books with other people. She said she wanted me to know I make a difference. I don’t know about you, but I consider that the ultimate compliment, the sweetest words anyone can say. I think most of us want to be legacy builders, people who make a difference in our time, inspiring those who come after us.
This thought made me consider some of the people who have made a difference in my life, perhaps helping to shape me into becoming a better person. I remember my second-grade teacher who always seemed to believe in me, who trusted me and told me I would be a great teacher someday. It turned out she was my dad’s teacher as well. Oddly enough, when I got to eighth grade and began to plan my course work for the next four years, my guidance counselor, tried to dissuade me from going to college. She made a difference. She caused me to work harder to achieve my goal and when I finished my master’s degree, I thought of her. In an odd way, she had strengthened my resolve to be a teacher. Even though, I don’t do much classroom teaching anymore, that spirit still exists within me.
I remember when I was first drawn to reading the Bible. I didn’t know anything about it, but I joined a group of young people who were already seasoned Christians. They answered my questions, encouraged my efforts and made a huge difference in my life. They planted seeds that caused me to consider what it could mean to make a difference for God.
I suspect we each have memories of the difference makers, the ones who helped guide our choices and our life direction. You have made a difference in the lives of people around you. You believed in someone’s dreams. You told someone to take another path. You shaped someone’s faith, or sense of self, or their desire to try harder. You were there at just the right time, giving them the gentle nudge to keep them moving forward. You have made a difference in a lot of people’s lives, and you still are doing so.
You’re creating a legacy of those who will come behind you and remember what you’ve done. They’ll thank you for equipping them to recognize what God designed them to be.
For all of you who make an incredible difference in my life, and you know who you are, I give God thanks and praise today.
Make a difference to someone today!