How Do Influential Christians Actually Live? (And What That Means for You)

Discipline starts before the sun rises — beginning the day with God at 4:00 a.m.

When you think of a successful Christian — someone truly influential for the Kingdom — who comes to mind?

Maybe it’s Billy Graham, whose preaching reached millions. Or Corrie ten Boom, whose quiet faith and courage saved lives during WWII. Or perhaps it’s your youth pastor, a faithful teacher, or even your grandparent.

Whatever the face, people like this don’t just believe in God — they live like it. And over time, you start to notice some patterns.

They’re not perfect. But they’re consistent. They’re faithful. And they’ve built a daily rhythm that keeps them close to God while making an impact on others.

Here’s what we can learn from them — especially if you’re a student who wants to grow in influence.

3 Traits of Truly Influential Christians

These aren’t just personality quirks. They’re intentional choices that become daily habits.

1. They Stay Close to God — No Matter What

They don’t squeeze God in when it’s convenient. They prioritize Him.

• Billy Graham started each day with prayer and Bible reading before breakfast — often five Psalms and one chapter of Proverbs — to align his heart with God’s wisdom.

• Susanna Wesley, mother of John and Charles Wesley, had a house full of children but still made time to pray daily. When she threw her apron over her head, her kids knew she was spending time with God.

“Remain in me, as I also remain in you… apart from me you can do nothing.” — John 15:4–5

2. They Obey — Even When It’s Hard

It’s easy to obey when it’s popular. But real integrity is doing what’s right when it costs something.

• Dietrich Bonhoeffer chose to return to Nazi Germany — knowing it could cost him his life — because he felt called to stand for truth in a dangerous time.

• Elisabeth Elliot went back to minister to the very people who had killed her husband, because she knew Christ’s command to love your enemies was not optional.

“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father…” — Matthew 5:16

3. They Use Their Life to Serve Others

They’re not trying to build a platform — they’re trying to build people.

• George Müller ran orphanages for thousands of children, never asking for donations, but praying for every need — and often seeing miraculous provision.

• Jackie Pullinger moved to Hong Kong at age 22 to serve drug addicts and gang members, living among them and showing the love of Christ in action.

“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” — Mark 10:43

So… How Do They Spend Their Days?

Character is built in the details of life — in the little choices repeated over and over. Here are the habits that consistently show up in the lives of godly influencers — from Bible heroes to modern-day leaders.

1. They Start Their Day With God

• Hudson Taylor often rose before dawn to read Scripture and pray — even on long sea voyages or in crowded Chinese cities.

• Whether it’s reading a Psalm, journaling prayers, or walking and talking with God, they begin the day by tuning in to Him.

2. They Protect Their Rest

• Corrie ten Boom took time for quiet walks and reading Scripture daily, even while traveling for speaking engagements.

• They understand that Sabbath isn’t a suggestion — it’s God’s gift to keep us healthy and dependent on Him.

3. They Steward Their Body

• John Wesley traveled on horseback and by foot, logging thousands of miles to preach the gospel — often into his 80s.

• They eat wisely, move regularly, and rest well — not for vanity, but so they can serve with strength.

4. They Start and End with Worship

• Charles Spurgeon began and ended his days in prayer and Scripture, believing that “the day is well ended when it ends with God.”

• Gratitude in the morning. Reflection at night. It shapes their soul.

5. They Show Up for People

• Billy Graham was known to send personal letters to encourage young pastors, missionaries, and friends.

• True influence isn’t just online. It’s face-to-face, handwritten, and personal.

What About You?

The best news: These habits aren’t reserved for pastors, missionaries, or church celebrities. They’re for you. Middle schoolers. High schoolers. College students. Adults.

God isn’t waiting for you to “grow up” before He can use you. He’s ready to shape you now — and small daily choices are how it starts.

You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be intentional.

Want to Take a Step?

• Pick one of the five daily habits above and commit to it for a week.

• Tell a friend or mentor so they can check in with you.

• Notice how these choices start to change your attitude, confidence, and impact.

You’re already influencing someone. The question is: What kind of influence are you becoming?