Musings on Power

 

The Unyielding Nature of Power

The pursuit of power is an arduous journey, riddled with discomfort and challenges. Power demands humility—not the gentle kind born out of choice but a lowering of oneself that can feel degrading. Bending for one’s own sake is inconvenient; bending for others can be downright humiliating. Yet, power is not for the faint of heart, nor for those willing to accept things as they are.

Those who wield power have paid a steep price for it. By virtue of their sacrifices, they owe no one anything. Power, seductive and indifferent to external influences, resides in a realm untouched by common concerns. This is why only God, who holds sway over the hearts of the powerful, can direct their will as He pleases.

Take King Rehoboam, for instance. A wealthy and powerful man, he inherited a kingdom brimming with potential. Yet, instead of easing the burdens on his people, he vowed to increase their torment beyond what his father, Solomon, had imposed. Why would a man with initiative on his side choose such a course?

Power is like a rigorous school, with lessons that demand full mastery. Skipping these lessons or abandoning the process leads to catastrophic consequences. King Saul, a man of great power, failed to conquer his internal demons, which ultimately led to his downfall and suicide. In contrast, King David triumphed over his struggles through reliance on God. He sought wisdom in the sanctuary and found strength in divine guidance, earning the title “Angel of the Lord.”

Those who fail to navigate the corridors of power remain half-baked, incapable of making sound decisions. Their choices become incomprehensible to themselves and to those who depend on them. True power brings immense leverage—less effort, greater results—but it is not something to be pursued lightly.

The disciples of Jesus Christ exemplify this paradox. Pre-selected for their mission, they witnessed extraordinary events that became ordinary over time. After Jesus’ death, their trials increased, with some facing martyrdom. Yet, they accepted their fate because their Master had promised them power to overcome. But with such power came burdens so great that one might question its desirability.

If Jesus were to stand before you today, preaching trials and tribulations while promising the strength to endure, would you accept Him? Power, despite its allure, is not an easy prize.

The Desire for Power

Wealth and riches are tempting goals, but they demand no self-debasement—just unwavering determination. Power, on the other hand, calls for actions that may defy personal and societal norms. Why then do people crave power?

The answer lies in oppression and opposition. For many, power appears to be the antidote to life’s adversities. But those who bow before power are not fools. They submit not to individuals but to the essence of power itself, which respects no person.

The game of wealth and riches can drain the soul, cutting lives short in its pursuit. But power is not merely a game; it is a reality where missteps lead to destruction. Ahitophel, once a revered counselor, lost his standing and succumbed to despair. Power demands total commitment, and failure to meet its terms plunges one into helplessness.

Lessons from the Mighty

Herod paid dearly for exalting himself to the heavens, forgetting that power resides on earth, not in the celestial realms. He was struck down because he sought glory that was not his to claim. Nebuchadnezzar, too, was humbled, cast into the wilderness to live as a beast until he acknowledged his limits.

Power, impartial and unyielding, always allows for redemption. Jesus conquered death and rose again. Nebuchadnezzar regained his throne after overcoming his pride. Even Herod might have found restoration had he recognized his place.

The Cost of Unclaimed Power

In today’s world, individuals often fail to seek permission from the source of the power they wield. This oversight comes at a cost, for royalties are always due—whether in money, attention, or life itself. To take what is not rightfully yours without acknowledgment is to place yourself under the authority of its true owner.

Solomon understood this principle well. His ability to summon divine wisdom and command the attention of supernatural beings brought him unparalleled wealth, influence, and power. Yet, his inability to return the due regard to the powers he summoned ultimately led to his downfall. His many wives and their gods gradually turned his heart away, proving that even the wisest among us are not immune to the pitfalls of unchecked power.

The Order of Power

To wield power effectively, one must understand its order and respect its boundaries. The stories of Herod, Nebuchadnezzar, Saul, and Solomon are stark reminders that power does not tolerate transgression. Those who ascend without fulfilling its requirements are swiftly brought low.

Power is not for the faint-hearted. It demands sacrifice, humility, and a deep understanding of one’s place. Only those who navigate its treacherous terrain with wisdom and discipline can hope to wield it without being consumed by it.