The Power of Influence
Preteens are influenced by the world around them. Parents, teachers, friends, family, the media, TV shows, movies, video games, social media, online activity, etc. have a major influence on young people. As much as these factors influence students, they are often unaware of their power. They’re unaware how the world around them is shaping, molding and affecting how they think, believe and act. Preteens are also unaware of how they have the power to influence others, often missing an opportunity to make a difference in the lives around them.
I would encourage you to help your preteens discover the power of influence. Yes, we do have a new back to school series called The Power of Influence, but this post is more about offering some ideas on this topic whether or not you purchase the series. This is a great topic to tackle with the preteens at your church, especially around back to school time. Be sure to plan ahead now.
Here are some ideas that will help your preteens discover the power of influence:
1. Isaiah 64:8
“Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.” – Isaiah 64:8
Preteens need to know that the biggest influence in their lives should be God. He designed them to be like clay, allowing Him to influence, mold, and shape them to be more like Jesus in the way they think, believe, and act. Consider building a lesson or series around this verse.
2. What Influences You?
The influences that shapes preteens varies with each individual. For some, friends might be a major influence and for others family could be a strong influence. Challenge preteens to discover what influences them. Next, help them filter whether those influences or positive or negative. Encourage them to come up with ways to minimize or eliminate the negative influences and maximize the positive ones.
3. Use Your Influence for Good
Preteens sometimes minimize their level of influence and don’t realize they have some levels of influence with others around. Give students an opportunity to analyze who they influence. Then, help them figure out ways to capitalize on that influence. A great example is my 11 year old son, Ethan. He is kind to Emma, his sister, and is always looking out for her. On the other hand is Joey, Ethan’s younger brother. Joey seems to make it his life’s purpose to terrorize Emma. Good thing Ethan has influence on Joey. There are numerous occasions where Ethan’s kind words and actions influence Joey to be nice to his sister.
In a world where negative influences are all around, you have an opportunity as a ministry leader to teach preteens about the power of influence. Doing so will help them harness it’s power for good, avoid making some bad decisions, and help them filter out the negative influences shaping them.
Again, if you’re interested in The Power of Influence series, go for it!