Presence & PowerSample

WHAT DO WE DO WITH POWER?

What do we do with power?

Our record as humans in how we use power is a mixed one, the use of power fills our history books with people who did great things for the good of others and those who greatly misused power at the cost of others. Our Christian history too, including the Bible - retells stories of both accounts. In fact, it is one of the temptations that the enemy uses against Jesus. Luke 4:6 says, “And the devil said to Him, ‘I will give You all this realm and its glory [its power, its renown]; because it has been handed over to me, and I give it to whomever I wish - I will give you power.’” Jesus’ response is, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.’” In other words, we can avoid falling in love with power and pride when we instead fall in love with the One who is power and allow Him to show us the right use of power.

In John 13, Jesus models to us exactly what we are supposed to do with power. Jesus, knowing exactly who He is - the Son of God, turns around and washes the disciples’ feet. Jesus came to turn power on its head. Where people used power to be served, He used it to serve others. Where people use power for gain, He used it to give. Where people used power as status, He used it to set an example. This is the example we follow. Luke 12:28 reminds us, “Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand even more.” What will we choose to do with this power?

The Bible reminds us to follow Jesus, the One who gave His life for us. We have a choice to use power for good. To use power to forgive, even when someone has not asked for it. To use power to choose love, even when personalities clash. To use power to bring positive change to this world. To use power to set an example in our marriages and family even through the toughest times. To serve and worship the most powerful One with our very lives. Like the Bible says, we are to be His witness in this world.

Today, thank God for the power you have been entrusted with. Ask Him where you can use His power to serve. Ask Him to search your heart and show you areas where there might be pride instead of humbleness of heart. Ask Him to shape your understanding of the use of power in your life.