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DAY ONE: Unchained Influence
Manasseh, son of the good King Hezekiah, ascended Judah’s throne at the tender age of twelve. All hormones, pimples, and peach-fuzz, this pre-teen had full authority to rule a kingdom with world influence rivaling Israel in Solomon’s day. Those who influenced Manasseh swayed a powerful nation.
The Power of Influence
Hebrew tradition says Manasseh likely became co-ruler with Hezekiah as early as age five. Manasseh’s parents probably held greatest sway over him during his early years; but teachers, companions, and advisors undoubtedly became the predominant influencers once he became co-ruler and king.
Everything our senses ingest—touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing—impacts us. Those we admire and those we don’t help mold and shape our thinking, feelings, and behavior.
- How do you think Isaiah’s harsh prophecies and/or Hezekiah’s fifteen-year life extension might have impacted Manasseh?
- How might subversive pagan advisors take advantage of a child’s naivety in such a powerful role?
From Darkness to Light
In the same ways we are influenced, so we influence others. Think of a few people you regularly spend time with and ask yourself:
- Are my words and actions persuading others to worship and follow Christ or to run after worldly passions and desires?
- What practical changes in word and action can I set in motion today that will reflect Jesus?
From Manasseh to the Cross
Jesus came to earth as the exact representation of God’s glory. After His death and resurrection, He imparted His Holy Spirit to those who believe so that we, through Christ Jesus, are His ambassadors in this world. Ponder that a moment! All the power of the Trinity dwelling within us in order to influence others for Christ!
- How does relying on God’s power (instead of your own) change your ability to resist the influence of others?
- How does relying on God’s power (instead of your own) change your desire to impact other lives for Christ?
Ask Jesus to empower you to live a life of unchained influence—both the strength to overcome ungodly sway and become a godly encouragement to others.
About this Plan
Mesu Andrews, best-selling author of Isaiah’s Legacy, joins Bible teacher Shawna Duvall to explore the life of Manasseh. When Manasseh was taken captive by the Assyrians, he turned to Yahweh and ran into His open arms of redemption. Through Manasseh’s journey, we’ll discover Who Yahweh is and the crimson thread connecting Manasseh to Jesus. By exploring the chains binding Judah’s most notorious king, we’ll learn to live in unchained freedom.
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