#iCONVICTION

Everybody has a platform, but not everyone knows it. A platform is a place of projection—that’s actually my definition.  When you think about where you stand, then you can think about what you stand for and how you project that stance.  You see, your place of projection is any place where your life takes on a reflection.  Thus, your platform is everywhere you go and everything you do.  It projects and reflects what is important to you: your priorities; your plans; your purpose.
You may not look at your vocation or even your recreation as a platform, but that’s because you may not realize how every situation can be used as an opportunity for impact.  Whether it’s of the mundane or something birthed from pain, the platform under you is the plan God has given you.
So the question remains, “How are you using your platform?”
I often think about my platform and the messages that are projected on a daily basis. From social media to how I conduct myself in social settings, and from public performance to behavior done in private.  If we desire to have friends or followers, than we ought to take seriously the responsibility to be a friend and a leader.  Both positions involve projection. 
So the question remains, “How are you using your platform?”
I once was a pro soccer player.  I, not too long ago, was also once a prisoner.  Now, however, I am an author and instigator and a Student Ministry Team leader.  Yet every single place I have been or will be is a platform that God has chosen for me, that I may be an influencer for Him. 
No matter your career choice, you can still choose to turn your career into your calling and be God’s agent in that workplace.  There are people around you who need to see what the reflection of hope looks like through your countenance.  There are co-workers watching you who need to see what the projection of faith does when the going gets tough.  Every place you stand and show face is a place where you can be the connection to help others understand grace (unearned favor by God).  That is the very point of every platform—to be the ambassadors of God’s kingdom on earth.
So the question remains, “How are you using your God-given platform?” 
Matthew Maher is a former professional athlete and author of the newly released book U MAY B THE ONLY BIBLE SOMEBODY READS: R U LEGIBLE? His “Decisions Determine Destiny” assemblies are funded by State Farm and service youth in the tri-state area. He served four years and seven months in N.J. State prison and was released August 2014. You can learn more at www.themattmaherstory.com, where his blogs have been read by over 500,000 people in every state, 121 countries, and in 67 different languages. Follow him on Twitter @mattmaherstory and on Instagram @matthewmaher7