Definition and Importance
Influence through character refers to the impact an individual's moral and ethical qualities have on others. In the biblical context, character is often synonymous with virtues such as integrity, honesty, humility, and love. The Bible emphasizes that a person's character can be a powerful tool for influencing others towards righteousness and godliness.

Biblical Examples
1. Daniel: Daniel is a prime example of influence through character. Despite being in a foreign land and under pressure to conform, Daniel maintained his integrity and faithfulness to God. His unwavering character influenced kings and led to the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. Daniel 6:4-5 states, "Then the administrators and satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent."

2. Joseph: Joseph's life demonstrates how character can influence even in adverse circumstances. Sold into slavery and later imprisoned, Joseph remained faithful to God and displayed integrity. His character eventually led to his rise to power in Egypt, where he influenced the nation and saved many lives. Genesis 39:9 records Joseph's words, "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?"

3. Jesus Christ: The ultimate example of influence through character is Jesus Christ. His life, teachings, and sacrificial love have profoundly impacted countless generations. Jesus' character was marked by compassion, humility, and obedience to the Father. Philippians 2:7-8 describes His humility: "But He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross."

Teachings on Character
1. The Fruit of the Spirit: Galatians 5:22-23 outlines the qualities that should characterize a believer's life: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." These attributes are essential for influencing others positively.

2. Integrity and Honesty: Proverbs 11:3 states, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the perversity of the faithless destroys them." Integrity and honesty are foundational to a character that influences others towards truth and righteousness.

3. Humility and Service: Jesus taught that true greatness comes through humility and service. Matthew 20:26-28 records His words: "Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many."

Impact of Character on Influence
1. Witness to Unbelievers: A godly character serves as a powerful witness to unbelievers. 1 Peter 2:12 encourages believers to "conduct yourselves with such honor among the Gentiles that, though they slander you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us."

2. Building Community: Character influences the building of strong, loving communities. Colossians 3:12-14 exhorts believers to "put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity."

3. Leadership: Godly character is essential for leadership within the church and community. 1 Timothy 3:2-3 outlines the qualifications for overseers, emphasizing character traits such as temperance, self-control, and respectability.

Conclusion
The Bible consistently teaches that influence through character is a powerful means of advancing God's kingdom. By embodying the virtues of Christ, believers can impact the world around them, drawing others to the truth and love of God.