Anyone who was alive in the early 1990’s probably has the lyrics of the extremely catchy song by SNAP running through their minds after reading the title of this article. In fact, it was in my mind the entire time I wrote this post. It probably will be the rest of the day.
There are many ways to be powerful. A person could be physically strong, mentally fit, financially equipped, or politically connected. All of these things have their inherent benefits. But none of them represent the greatest power available to mankind. They can all be an incredible blessing, but who they are a blessing for is determined by how they are used.
When we think of strongmen, no doubt Samson has to come to mind. He was by far the strongest man mentioned throughout the story of the Bible. He defeated lions with his bare hands, took down hundreds of men by himself, and pulled down buildings. But all in all, his life was a major waste, and his strength for nothing but show, except for the times he was connected with God. In the book of Judges it talks about how the Spirit of the Lord came over Samson and gave him strength. The Spirit was the key and the purpose was endgame. Who cares if someone can bench 350 pounds. How are they using that to benefit others and serve the purposes of God? How is the Spirit guiding that ability? I think of professional athletes who have been endowed with great physical abilities. None of it matters unless they use it for something far great than getting a paycheck and putting on a show for people.
Another great example would be Daniel. He was taken captive at a young age but he rose to prominence and political prestige quickly. His ascent was only meaningful in the sense that he would use his influence as part of a greater story. Daniel prayed, a lot, in order to keep his focus on what really mattered. That was the only thing that saved his life and set his future and legacy. The same can be said about Joseph, who’s brothers sold him into captivity, but later became the second most powerful person in the world. What kept him on track was his connection with God and determination to stay within His designed course. It wasn’t political influence that made them powerful, it was their relationship with the LORD. It wasn’t a policy agenda that drove them, it was the heart of God that supplied their vision.
Most people will never be world class athletes, political influencers, or wealthy elites. But none of those things determine someone’s real power. Physical fitness fades, money can’t enter the grave, and no one remains in political office forever. Just as it was for Samson, Daniel, Joseph, and countless others, it’s the power of connection that makes someone truly powerful. We have to be in tuned with God’s plan for our lives and how that fits in to a much bigger story for humanity. We have to stay connected through prayer and meditation. Then, and only then, will we have access to the greatest power in the world, the power of the Holy Spirit. There is no other power on earth that can transform a life, a culture, and a people quite like this one.
Prior to entering the promised land, Joshua was coronated as the leader of Israel and given charge to conquer and take back a land that was filled and defiled by the worst of humanity. These people would have made Hitler look like a saint. But that’s besides the point. God’s greatest advice was this: be strong and courageous and know that I am with you. God went on to tell him that his success was directly linked to his connection with God Himself. Joshua was instructed to meditate on God’s words day and night. Joshua went on to become one of the greatest commanders in world history. Not because of his military acumen, but because of his faithfulness to his God.
We will only become truly powerful in life when power isn’t what we seek. What makes someone useful isn’t their skill set, it’s a humble disposition and a servant’s heart. The people who will make the real difference in life are those living in a bigger story, one that is not about them, but about the One who made them. God made us not as instruments for selfish gain, but as messengers of His love. A love so powerful that it cannot be stopped. But a love that is only possible through a deep connection with God Himself. That is the point of your life and mine.
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. John 15:4 ESV
As a parent, there is absolutely nothing I wouldn’t want my children to feel like they could come to me about. I’m not just thinking about all of the big things they will face in life. I also want them to be comfortable sharing the little things. There is nothing trivial about a parent-child relationship. The same can be said about our relationship with God.
People can be so reckless sometimes. We fly off the handle with our reactions, we are too careless with our words, and we are often out of touch with the ripple effect of our actions. We are all helping to carry others through life. Whether as a parent, teacher, mentor, friend, spouse, peer, coworker or simply a citizen, we are all part of others’ journeys through life. We will all impact the process. And we will all be impacted by others.
Thanks to the technology revolution the tongue is not only physical, but it is also digital. Texting and social media are the main forms of communication in today’s modern society. It has allowed for rapid and frequent connection with friends and loved ones alike. The exchange of ideas has become as quick as a click. Along with all the good it has also brought on a new way of slandering, gossiping, and criticizing others, by saying things we’d never say in front of others.
Christianity is an active faith. One that stirs the heart into motion. It moves the believer towards a community of love, not just with friends and family, but with the despised and destitute also. For the Christian, family has no skin tone nor nationality. Shameful pasts can be erased in a moment and acceptance is found when a humble heart kneels at the foot of a cross. No one is unwelcome and no one is too dirty for the cleansing power of God’s grace. The Christian sees everyone as equal because he or she has come to terms with their own brokenness and need. We are all light years from God’s perfection, even the best among us. That is why God has invited us all to go to those whom the world has beaten down and rejected. Three things should always remain open for the Christian: their home, their arms, and their hands. The good and faithful servant reaps a harvest of love no matter where they find themselves and no matter the cost.
For Common Ground 