The Worthlessness of Power in the End

Why do countries declare war upon one another? 

Why do politicians sling mud at their rivals? 

Why do siblings provoke fights and prolong grudges, no matter how old they are?

It’s all because of one word: power.  Humans CRAVE the ability to control every factor, make every decision, and win every challenge.  We assume that the more power one holds, the better life gets.  But does it?

Our Bible verse today warns us against craving power:  “When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes; all he expected from his power comes to nothing (Proverbs 11:7).” 

Here’s the deal: lots of power doesn’t equal lots of joy.  Gaining the upper hand doesn’t satisfy very long.  Trampling others won’t connect you to long-term calm.  We might think there’s a power peak we can climb, in order to become happy and satisfied while everyone else keeps stumbling below?  But that place simply doesn’t exist.  Worse, by choosing to pursue power, and abandon God – what does one inevitably discover? 

Their hope has perished.  Their expectations are unmet.  The only thing they are holding is a lie. 

So…instead of pursuing power that never satisfies, pursue learning more about God’s love!  He gave up all his power to be able to offer you lots of joy. Consider how wide, deep, long and free the love of Jesus is for any lost sinner.  Long-term calm is yours!  You will not perish, but have eternal life.  Even though you have no power, your Savior always does.  You will be eternally satisfied.  Your expectations will be surpassed!         

Dear Savior, change me so that instead of wanting to win every argument, I want to win souls for your truth.  Instead of trampling others, give me desire to share how you allowed your holy self to be trampled for their sake.  Give me wisdom to always see that selfish power leads to nothing.  Instead, cause me to pursue loving others in the way that you would love them, because that leads to everything.  It’s in your holy name that I pray, Amen.