In our world, we sometimes associate “power” with brute force, which typically has negative connotations: “overpowering” someone for personal gain, etc. However, the Bible reminds us that this is a perversion of the intended use of power.

God, the ultimate source of power, always uses His power for good. God’s power is portrayed as solid and consistent in the midst of an ever-changing world. His power is the very essence of the perseverance of good and love in a world that seems to thrive on manipulation and force.

The imagery associated with God’s power is certainly impressive: stronger than storms, whirlwinds, and mountains. However, the most impressive and intriguing components of God’s power include His desire to give us free choice rather than to force us into a relationship with Him.

God possesses more than enough power to conquer the most frightful forces of the universe, including death! However, His is the kind of power that refuses to bully or to do harm. How wonderful that this all-powerful God treats us with such kindness and gentleness, demonstrating that at the heart of His power is not manipulation, but deep love.   

At the heart of His power is not manipulation, but deep love.

As we celebrate God’s power over darkness, sin, and death during this season of Advent, let us constantly emphasize the fact that God’s power stands in stark contrast to the perverted versions of power on display in much of our world.

We see it clearly in the Christmas story that we are preparing to tell in the days ahead: The God who created all things comes to us as a helpless baby, born in a small town on the outskirts of a little-known region of the world. Where the world’s power (shown in King Herod) seeks to bully and utilize force, God’s power (shown in Jesus Christ) comes to us humbly clothed in love and grace, and lying in a manger.

May we use whatever influence or power we have in ways that glorify Christ and magnify His love and mercy to the whole world.

Prayer for the Week:

Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come
among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins,
let Your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver
us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with You and
the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and forever. Amen. (from The Book of Common Prayer)

Charles W. Christian is managing editor of Holiness Today.

Written for devotions with Holiness Today.

Please note: All facts, figures, and titles were accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of original publication but may have since changed.