Authentic Influence: Why Integrity Matters

+JMJ+ We live in a world where influence is everywhere. Voices rise up daily on social media, in blogs, podcasts, and public speaking platforms. Some of these voices belong to survivors courageously sharing their stories. Others belong to leaders, writers, or everyday people who want to inspire and encourage. Many of them aspire to bring light and hope to others, and their words can have a powerful impact.

Yet, there is also a reality we cannot ignore: sometimes influence can be misused or distorted. Even those with the best of intentions can be negatively affected by the pressures of being in the public eye. Popularity, affirmation, and attention can easily cloud judgment, and in some cases, truth begins to be stretched or manipulated.

But not all influence is equal. Sometimes, what is said in private doesn’t match what is posted publicly. A person may do or say one thing in front of you but present something entirely different online. At times, content can even be manipulative. For example, people can subtly twist the faith to fit personal agendas or political narratives. What may look inspiring on the surface can, in reality, be misleading and harmful. This should serve as a caution.

This behavior may not always stem from malice. Sometimes, it comes from wounds, insecurity, naivety, or the desire to be seen and heard. Regardless of the reason, when integrity is lacking, influence loses its power. What may seem as inspiring or informative on the outside can, in reality, be misleading and harmful.

For example, following Charlie Kirk’s recent assassination, countless posts have appeared online claiming he or his wife had said or done things that were false or misrepresented. Some content has twisted their words or invented quotes entirely which has shaped a distorted image of them. This shows how easily influence can be manipulated. Sometimes it is done maliciously and sometimes simply through careless sharing without thoroughly checking the facts.

This is why discernment is so important. Not all content is worth sharing, no matter how moving it seems at first glance. True influence must always be rooted in truth and in a willingness to reflect Christ in all things. Without truth and authenticity, influence is fragile and fleeting.

That doesn’t mean we necessarily abandon people who struggle with honesty or consistency (although sometimes backing away might be the best option for some relationships). On the contrary, our first response should be prayer. Support and intercession offered privately can be a lifeline. But publicly, we must be careful. Our witness as Christians should reflect integrity both in private and in public. Our words and our lives must align.

St. Paul reminds us in Titus 2:7:

“Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity.”

Authenticity matters. Integrity gives our witness lasting weight. We can admire courage, respect one another, and celebrate powerful voices (such as survivors), but at the same time, we must remain discerning. Influence is only meaningful when it is anchored in truth and shines with the light of Christ.

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A Reflection for Discernment

Before sharing content (or even before sharing your own thoughts publicly) it can be helpful to pray for wisdom and discernment. Pause and ask:

• Does this reflect truth? Am I certain it is accurate, honest, and not distorted?

• Does this glorify God? Or is it centered on self-promotion, drama, or exaggeration?

• Does this align with my private life? Would my words hold up if those closest to me saw the whole picture?

• Will this build up others? Or could it mislead, harm, or sow division?

• Would I say this if Christ were physically standing in front of me?

When the answers to these questions point toward truth, love, and consistency, then our words and our witness become worthy of sharing.