The language of power comes in many forms. Sometimes it is physically intimidating. On other occasions it is through a verbal channel. Occasionally it is merely the presence of one person in the space of another. Whatever the source, I often find myself instantly reflecting on my reaction to power; do I confront, ignore, or play along?
On my corporate journey I have seen an incredible range of power. At times everyone in the room knows it is posturing. The individual trying to leverage the position can be male or female. Ironically their inexperience is the most obvious. There are other occasions where nobody is really sure. Does she or doesn’t she have the authority and power to do what she is saying she is going to or is doing?
In each situation I find there is a common thread that links examples of power. Truth, real truth, is powerful in its own right. Getting truth out in the open, modeling truth in daylight and darkness, and striving for truth carry an impact and force that others cannot deny. A famous movie line told his antagonist that he “couldn’t handle the truth!” I find as I look around that most of the time we, myself included, don’t want to handle the truth. I like my comfort zones. I seek the god within that satisfies, well almost satisfies. I want to be safe; remember this statements means doing what I did yesterday because at least I made it.
Real power changes lives if one is open. If one isn’t then the results are stressful, painful, and often confusing. Some believe they find comfort and peace in false powers but it never lasts. In time truth is revealed, and it is the same with the source of power.
I wonder how I will try to convince others today; bluff and bravado or truth? The choice dictates my future.
“I came with the authority of my Father, and you either dismiss me or avoid me. If another came, acting self-important, you would welcome him with open arms.” (John 5.43)
