"The Lord our God comes with power." Is 40:10
Power can be a dirty word in religious circles, and it should not be. While speaking of God's power does not bother most, power in the hands of people who abuse it can be devastating. While power can be manipulative and destructive, it can also be uplifting and ennobling. How to hold and use power creatively for and with others is the task of every adult believer.
Parents understand this well. Making decisions for their children when they are young and helping children make good decisions as they grow into adulthood is a legitimate and necessary exercise of the power parents are given by God, but every parent also must also learn when they need to let go of their children in order to teach them how to make decisions and choices that benefit others and exalt God. Not easy for most parents, letting go of power and control over their children.
Power with others, not over them is the key to understanding the power God wants us to have. When we work together for the good of all, we know that the power we have makes a difference in the world and sets a tone for Christian behavior that brings glory to God who gives us freedom to create a world in which every person has access to basic human needs.
Today, work with someone else to advance the mission of God.
What person of power do you most admire?
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