18/08/2026
INFLUENCE BEGINS AT HOME
Pastor Eric reminded us of a powerful truth: influence begins at home.
Expounding on the question, “Who is your father?”, he challenged us to consider the influence of fathers and families in shaping the next generation. Children often reflect what they see—the values, character, faith, and heritage that have been built within their homes.
David was known as the son of Jesse. Before he became king, he was already described as “a mighty valiant man, and a man of war” (1 Samuel 16:18).
Yet when David volunteered to face Goliath, Saul looked at his youth and said:
“Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth.”
— 1 Samuel 17:33, KJV
Saul saw a young man.
God saw a prepared warrior.
David’s preparation did not begin on the battlefield. It began in the ordinary, hidden places of life—where his character, courage, faith, and dependence on God were being developed.
Pastor Eric highlighted three powerful forces that can shape our children at home:
THE POWER OF INFLUENCE
Children learn from what they see. Our example—our faith, choices, character, and response to challenges—often speaks louder than our words.
THE POWER OF INCENTIVES
Encourage children to choose what is right. Recognize good choices and help establish habits that honor God. Motivate them to read the Bible, obey God’s Word, and practice what they learn.
THE POWER OF INSPIRATION
Children need someone worth following. When parents live with faith, joy, courage, integrity, and purpose, they inspire their children to desire the same.
Influence shows them.
Incentives encourage them.
Inspiration moves them.
Our responsibility is not merely to raise children who do what is right because they are told to, but children who desire what is right because they have been influenced and inspired by a godly example.
The heritage we build today becomes part of what the next generation carries tomorrow.
Build the character.
Nurture the faith.
Encourage what is right.
Read the Bible together.
Inspire the next generation.
Build a legacy that lasts.
Because influence does not begin on a stage, in a classroom, or in a position of leadership.
Influence begins at home.