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1 Corinthians 4:20

²⁰For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power.

Have you ever met someone who is outspoken about his convictions, but it seems he has found something wrong in every Christian leader? It is as if the person thinks his opinions and interpretations should be canonized. While claiming to be humble, that individual has a comment on every issue and every person. He can talk! But when we examine the criticizer's life with the same scrutiny and critical eye he has toward others, there is a great deal of inconsistency.

The power of God transforms our lives. While the Word is conveyed in language, it is manifest in the power to make spiritually dead people live. That power changes the fruit in one's life from that of the flesh to the Spirit (Galatians 5:19-24). Those who are spiritually mature stand in confident faith that God's purposes will prevail. They have a peaceful assurance that, come what may, God is able to work everything together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

That power is not manifest in retaliation, but rather it is seen in the choice to rise above the conflict. When struck on the cheek a weak person will run. A strong person will fight. An overcomer will turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:38-39). That is real power! It is ours when we are walking in the Spirit and completely trusting God rather than ourselves. When Scripture clearly affirms our convictions and we stand in complete faith in God without wavering, people see the power of the kingdom of God.

Consider: Have I been rising above in Jesus or coming down to the world's level?