I had a dream. It was on March 29, 2023. In my dream, my daughter and I were standing in line for a Christian event and almost up to the counter. A gentleman and his girlfriend were behind us. I spoke to them, but the man only had smart responses. I was just trying to be nice. They were Christians just like us. I don't remember exactly what he said but I do remember saying Empowerment is a big word. You are empowered to speak whatever comes to your mind. Empowered to be the greatest at what you do. Empowerment is a great thing to have but when being empowered, be kind because that is the only way others will see the goodness of God.
Here's the deal. Most Christians know their authority in Christ. They have read or heard of Mark 16:17 which says, "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Also, Luke 10:19 which says, " Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you."
So we know that Jesus gave us authority and he wants us to use it. However, that authority was not meant to be rude and overbearing, to bully and oppress, or to hurt someone and make them feel less than.
Of course, if it's the devil, have at it! Because the devil does not understand boundaries. And his whole goal is to steal, kill and destroy in any way possible.
For the church, we have been given a directive from God to "do good to all men, especially those of the household of faith." See Galatians 6:10.
Here's the definition of Empowerment that I found. It means authority or power given to someone to do something. The process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one's life and claiming one's rights.
As a child of our King, we are empowered and entitled to use the name of Jesus in every circumstance. But that empowerment and entitlement does not authorize us to be rude.
Let's love unconditionally like Jesus and show others the Goodness of God.
Blessings always,
Rose Belk