“You would have no power over me unless it had been given to you from above.” – John 19:11

Power is only perceived. It is an illusion created by the world that manifests itself from wealth, influence, fear, and control. How often have we given up dominion of our lives based on a false sense of power that we feel others have over us?

Earthly authority on the other hand is given by God. Jesus is the ultimate authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:20) and he has the final say in everything. However, there are positions of authority on earth that God has ordained.

Government has authority over the people. Parents have authority over their children. Church leaders have authority over their congregation. Husbands have authority over their families. Supervisors have authority over their employees. Authorities given by God are to be respected.

Authority is given by God for the sole purpose of serving others. Jesus says that he who wishes to be great must become a servant. Authority is not to be sought after. We are called to humble ourselves and go low.

We must do something about this illusion of power that we perceive. This illusion focuses on things that the world looks at. To break this cycle, we must focus on what God looks at and that is the heart.

Luke 10:19 says; “I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy.” If we have been given authority over the most evil of beings, why should we fear others. What people think about and do to us should have no influence on us whatsoever. What can mere mortals do to us?

I encourage anyone who reads this to break the cycle of fear caused by some illusion of power. I also encourage you to stop chasing the illusion of power that does not exist. Free yourself by breaking the chains that have held you down and live according to God’s word.

-Phil