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 I want to be POWERFUL. 
 
What do you think of when you think about power? Success? Control? Influence? Respect? Oftentimes we associate what it means to be powerful with all of these things listed. But, actually, this is only a worldly perception of what it means to be powerful. 
 
One of my favourite books on relationships, all relationships, is called “Keep Your Love On” by author Danny Silk. In this book, he clearly lays out what our lives look like if we truly are ‘powerful’ people. I refer back to this book often, for preaching, for talking with others about relationships, and for my own life. I want to be powerful!
 
Ok. So as Christians, what makes us powerful? 
 
Love. Why does that make us powerful? Romans 5:8 says this, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Because Jesus chose to love us (at our worst!) we can choose to love others. You are powerful because you have the ultimate source of love, acceptance, grace, and forgiveness. If Jesus really did what the Bible says he did, if we really believe what He says is true, then we have been given everything we need to live a fulfilled, free and joy-filled life. Not without trial, pain, and struggle - but even in these things we have the One who is good right there with us, loving us through.
 
Powerful people understand that their job is to control themselves, not others. Powerful people are respected, not because they commanded it, but because they demonstrate respect in how they interact with others. Powerful people create a safe place for others, and for themselves. Powerful people love. Well. 

1 Cor 13: 4 - Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts always hopes, and always perseveres. Love never fails.

Pastor Laura Bidell