​How does power impact you?

We hear and read a lot today about power, its abuses, and its benefits.

But what is power? Power is defined as the ability to have or exude control over someone or something.

Power can be abused by perverting the trust that is assigned to any person or group in a position of authority. This misuse of responsibility violates established laws and norms, ethical standards, and conventional policies. This perversion of power undermines the integrity of the position.

Power can also be a benefit to individuals or a society at large. Power can direct beneficial change and drive innovation. It can be used as a tool for social justice by enhancing social status and providing access to greater opportunities and better allocating resources. It can also shape policies and mitigate conflict.   

Power in and of itself is not necessarily bad. We should ask ourselves: who has power, who is benefiting from that power, and who is a victim of the power? Unfortunately, today, power is seen as almost always evil and harmful.

Interestingly, the Bible does not demonize power. It doesn't divide the world into those with power and those who are oppressed by that power. After all, God is described as being all-powerful.

In St. Paul's first letter to Timothy, he asks for prayers for all those in power so that the authority can help society lead a quiet and tranquil life.  We need people in power who can provide for and protect the common good and the dignity of everyone.

St. Paul goes on to explain that one of the principal roles of people with power (government) is to ensure that those over whom they exude power are allowed to come to the knowledge of the truth through salvation.

Conversely, the prophet Amos rails against the abuse of power, especially when it is applied to the abuse of the poor. He despises authority that mismanages the economy to keep the needy and poor oppressed.  Power should be used to uplift the poor, not keep them subjugated.

Unfortunately, there are people in power today who are using people experiencing poverty to elevate themselves. We are called by our faith, but more importantly by our Creator, to use our power to uplift the less fortunate. It's not about the individual; it's about us collectively. 

Please understand, I'm not advocating for socialism. I'm advocating for a capitalistic free-market economy. However, a free-market economy should strive to improve the lives of everyone by providing opportunities for engagement and employment.  

How are we using our power to lift others economically, morally, spiritually? Once our needs are met, how do we utilize our power and resources to address the needs of the downtrodden? 

Please leave me a comment about how you are using your power to lift others. Your opinions and perspectives are valuable, and I'd appreciate hearing from you.

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