In The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey introduces the concept of the Circle of Influence vs. the Circle of Concern – a powerful framework for focusing our energy where it truly matters. He argues that effective people prioritize what they can directly influence rather than being consumed by concerns beyond their control. This principle aligns closely with the way Jesus approached his mission, demonstrating that focusing on influence leads to greater impact, effectiveness, and productivity.
The Circle of Concern vs. The Circle of Influence
Covey describes two concentric circles:
- The Circle of Concern – This includes everything we worry about, from global crises and political instability to personal anxieties and societal issues. While these are real and significant, most of them are outside our direct control.
- The Circle of Influence – This is where our actions and decisions can create tangible change, such as our attitudes, choices, relationships, and immediate environment.
People who dwell too much on the Circle of Concern often feel overwhelmed, helpless, or paralyzed by negativity. In contrast, those who focus on their Circle of Influence take proactive steps to make a meaningful difference where they can, leading to a more empowered and impactful life.
Jesus’s Focus on Influence Over Concern
Jesus exemplified this principle throughout his ministry. He lived in a time of political oppression under the Roman Empire, widespread injustice, and religious hypocrisy – serious concerns that many would have expected him to address with political activism or social upheaval. Instead, Jesus chose to invest in what he could influence: the hearts and lives of individuals.
- He Focused on People, Not Politics
While many expected him to overthrow Roman rule, Jesus focused on transforming hearts rather than toppling governments. He preached the Kingdom of God, teaching that true change begins within. His famous words, “Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Mark 12:17), reflect his focus on eternal, spiritual matters rather than political concerns beyond his mission.
- He Discipled a Few to Change Many
Jesus didn’t try to single-handedly reform the world’s problems. Instead, he invested deeply in his disciples, knowing that by influencing them, they would go on to influence others. His approach mirrors Covey’s principle – working within one’s influence to create a ripple effect of change.
- He Taught Personal Responsibility Over External Blame
When faced with injustice or suffering, Jesus didn’t encourage his followers to dwell on what they couldn’t control. Instead, he urged them to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16) – to actively live out godly principles in their immediate environment.
- He Prayed for the World But Acted Locally
Jesus did not ignore the world’s troubles; he prayed for the world (John 17:20-21) but spent his time healing the sick, teaching individuals, and serving those around him. His actions show that while we should pray about global issues, our primary focus should be on where we can actively make a difference.
How This Applies to Us Today
In our modern world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by global problems – climate change, political instability, economic crises, and social injustices. While these issues are important, spending too much energy on them without taking action in our immediate sphere leads to frustration and inaction.
Instead, we should ask:
✅ What can I personally influence today?
✅ Who can I impact in my immediate surroundings?
✅ How can I be the change instead of just worrying about change?
Ways to Shift from Concern to Influence
- Pray about global issues but act locally – volunteer, mentor, or support a cause in your community.
- Invest in relationships – be a positive influence on your family, workplace, and church.
- Develop your character – focus on growing in wisdom, kindness, and leadership.
- Be proactive – instead of complaining about problems, seek solutions within your reach.
Conclusion
When we shift our attention from worry to action, we experience greater effectiveness, joy, and fulfillment. Just as Jesus changed the world by focusing on his sphere of influence, we, too, can create lasting change – not by being overwhelmed by the world’s problems, but by faithfully stewarding what God has placed within our reach.
Blessings
Nico