Recognize your platform

We each have a platform, a position to speak into other’s lives. As a dad, as a coach, as a business leader, as a friend, young and old, everyone has a platform.

Platforms change as the seasons of your life change, but, in each season, make no mistake, you have a platform.

Some are big, many people are watching. Some, not as big, maybe only one or a few people are watching. I have found the smaller the platform, the bigger the influence.

What we each do with our platform is vital.

From the platform, actions and words influence and impact lives, as many will emulate what they see. If a person lives generously, humbly, and graciously, others will be impacted to do the same. In fact, action and words from the platform create a domino effect in the lives of others, no matter the size of the stage.

How often do we see children emulating their fathers? We see this play out in business, as well. A leader that humbly loves others and fosters transparency will see these qualities overflow into the culture. Friends impact friends. Coaches impact players. Teachers impact students. And, each of these platforms will leave a legacy. Recognize that your platform will impact generations.

Platforms can be used to create unity. We have all seen where a platform is used the wrong way and the result is division. Think about the sideline tantrum or the business leader that lacks humility. Lack of trust runs rampant on the team or the organization.

On the other hand, humbly give God glory and others credit from the platform, recognizing that He is in control, and the message will create unity. Sure, some will try to divide, but, others stand with that message, as it is easy to follow a humble leader.

And those that stand on the platform together are strong. I am reminded of the time Peter stood up to preach in Acts 2, and “eleven others stood up with him.” Facing certain death, these twelve men began the delivery of a worldwide message that carries on today. What an example of a platform used well.

The last point about a platform is simply obedience. In Genesis 12, God tells Abraham that he is about to be blessed so that he can be a blessing to others. Blessed to be a blessing. Our platform is given to us as a gift to bless others. A holy God gives us the free gift of our platform, so that we may use it for other people. The free gift of a platform should compel one to be obedient to the giver, and obedience from the platform brings great joy.

So, consider your platform today.

As I opened, make no mistake, you do have a platform, be it a friend, a dad, a mom, or the leader of hundreds. Recognize and take great care of your position, as platforms are temporary. You will never know the influence that you once had until years later when you turn around.

Impact others and live generously.