Since I have had all this time for reflection and introspection it is been very interesting to see what has come to light. As the sifting in my life continues (and I am sure in yours as well) I have become more increasingly aware of how my body responds to fear, anxiety and things that are perceived as potential threats. Not that I did not notice it before, however I more increasingly aware as of late. As we have all recently seen more and more images of police brutality it reminds of the times where I felt the weight of the misuse of power. It is something I have regularly experienced. Over the years God has given the courage to stand up against the Abuse Of Power. With it came immense emotional upheaval, nevertheless the Holy Spirit was there to help navigate me through it.
I have never experienced police brutality. The fear of having a gun pulled out on you is something I can not even begin to comprehend. The truth is when my life was in jeopardy and my safety was at risk the police were there to protect me. I know for many they have had a different experience. I, however, have had other individuals abuse their power over me. They have put the full weight of their authority and power they were entrusted with up against me as a means to control, manipulate, intimidate, belittle and undermine me as a person. Needless to say those moments have left a lasting impression. So much so that if a situation presents itself even remotely similar I have a physiological response. Just the thought of it can make me feel ill. Brutality is not limited to the police department. For me it came from individuals who were not wearing a uniform or holding a badge. But, there was still an oath love, care, lead and guide, of which it was never fulfilled. The harm caused was just as painful.
Being placed in a position of authority is one thing God takes seriously. Eli sons were judged for how they abused their position and authority they were trusted with (1 Samuel 2:12:36). Eli, their father, was also judged because he failed to strong address and correct his sons behaviour. The power and authority given was abused. Both Hophni and Phinehas (Eli’s sons), and Eli paid the price for their abuse of power. I have learned to trust that God will deal with those you have abused their power. Although we live in a age where is no fear of the Lord God is not asleep. He sees and He knows all. People may live their lives as though a day of judgement is not coming, but when it comes there will be no where to run or hide. Everyone will have to give an account.
Sadly there will always be situations where power and authority is abused and misused. This is an unfortunate reality due to the sin nature, but God is the lifter of our heads. He is the lifter of oppression. Walking through seasons of healing after those experiences has afforded me such valuable lessons. The bible says the things we suffer is for our benefit. Jesus himself suffered. As I look back now although those experiences were immensely painful they taught me things I would not have learned otherwise. God can use your pain to produce wisdom, so when the time comes you can be trusted with power and authority. You will not lack compassion or humility, because ALL power and authority is borrowed. It is be stewarded like money. Using it as if it belongs to you is equally as dangerous as inflicting it on an undeserving person.
Thank you for joining the journey
Know you are loved,
Little Rose
Little Rose: Join The Journey 