July 22: Insight Post by Rusty Coram
Wednesday Insight Post
by Rusty Coram
One of the ugly features of power in our culture is how often it is sought after to gain advantage over others. Those who have power use it to control and punish those who aren’t on “the team.” Those who want power will seemingly do anything to wrestle it away from those holding it so they can have all the perceived perks.
Standing out in stark contrast is Jesus. The One who had power - all power - and used it to the advantage of others even at His own great expense. One of my mentors taught me a principle of leadership that I have tried to live by: “People will follow a leader who uses his power and influence for the benefit of those who follow and not merely for his or her-self.” Our passage from 1 Peter this week describes this: “6 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7 (NLT) We know that our God is all-powerful (omnipotent), which means there is no one and nothing else that rivals His strength and power. Yet, He pursues and invites us to join His family and follow Him as our loving and devoted Father. Jesus’ voluntary sacrifice of His life to pay the penalty we owed is the ultimate proof of God’s amazing and unrivaled love. He continues to show us His love by inviting us to surrender ourselves to Him so we can live in His protective care and protection.
Some submit when they feel overpowered by another out of fear or futility. Those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior submit out of recognition that He is good and will always lead and care for His followers and family.
Rusty Coram
Senior Pastor
New Hope Church
Lorton, Virginia
www.newhope.org