What would you do if you were in charge? We often desire power and authority; perhaps we even dream about what we would accomplish if we possessed such things. We would get to do things our way. Maybe we even harbor thoughts of the control we could wield over others. Sadly, many people use authority and power for selfish ends, and often, they abuse or mistreat others. But authority is not meant for tearing down—it is meant for helping others. This is especially true in the church.
In 2 Corinthians 10:8, the apostle Paul says, “For even if I boast a little too much of our authority, which the Lord gave for building you up and not for destroying you, I will not be ashamed.” How do you view authority? Do you view it as a right allowing you to exercise power over others, or do you view it as a gift enabling you to help and serve others?