Power Unpacked

We often think of power as a way to do something. But power can also be about not doing something.

 

  Think about a dam. It holds back a massive weight of water. That requires an amount of power to contain all that potential energy. It is easy to see the power in a rocket blasting off but less so in a coiled spring.

 

 In the Bible, two different Greek words are used when talking about forms of power. Dunamis represents the power to do something. It’s often associated with miraculous things. It references wealth or an army, something you have to get a job done.

 

  Another term is Exousia. It is the power to hold something in check. It’s often associated with authority or government.  It is the power of choice, what you can do or not do.

 

  I wonder if we do the same thing with these concepts as we do with physical examples. We don't often think of having power in not doing something, but the truth is that kind of power is just as exceptional.

 

  Don’t think it is weak to hold back, don’t assume a lack of strength to decline. Being out of control isn’t a strength, it’s a sign of weakness.

 

  Be under control not controlled