THEOSISGregory the Great
God does not forsake the mighty, even though He Himself is mighty, as stated in Job 36:5. Throughout our time on earth, some experiences inherently bring suffering, while others inflict pain due to external circumstances. Certain factors, like sin and wickedness, are sources of pain in themselves. Conversely, some experiences yield sorrow due to contextual factors, such as societal power or the commitments of marriage. Though marriage is a source of joy, it can also be overshadowed by the burdens of worldly concerns. This is why Paul advises, "He who is married cares about the things of the world, how he may please his wife" (1 Cor. 7:33).
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He provides guidance to those contemplating a different path, noting, "But I say this for your own benefit, not to put a restraint upon you, but for what is proper and that you may serve the Lord without distraction" (1 Cor. 7:35).
As long as we maintain what does not inflict pain, we often find ourselves troubled by the thorns that line our path. We may not stumble on a straight road, yet the thickets alongside can snag our garments. Worldly authority, when wielded appropriately, can be a special gift from God. However, pride can swell within those who elevate themselves and look down upon others. While their desires are fulfilled and they receive praise for any good they enact, the accolades may also inadvertently endorse their wrongdoings, prompting the mind to overestimate its value, detached from truth and self-awareness. In their quest for distinction, they tend to undervalue the inherent worth of those below them, falling into the trap of believing themselves far wiser than their peers.
The arrogance of such individuals resembles that of the one described in Job 41:26: "He looks on everything that is high; he is king over all the children of pride," and is echoed in Proverbs 30:13, which states, "There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! And their eyelids are lifted up high." This figure represents the one who seeks solitude in superiority, aspiring to ascend above the clouds, proclaiming, "I will be like the Most High." Such an attitude leads him to a significant internal downfall while he externally rises in status. Indeed, a person mirrors a fallen angel when he refuses to acknowledge his comradeship with humanity. Saul exemplifies this transformation; he began with commendable humility but fell into the pride that accompanied his authority. The Lord noted, "When you were little in your own eyes, were you not made the head of the tribes of Israel?" (1 Kings 15:17). Before assuming power, he acknowledged his smallness, yet once empowered, his self-assessment shifted.
The Lord warns us against self-exaltation, declaring through His prophet, "Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight" (Isaiah 5:21). Similarly, Paul counsels against self-importance, stating, "do not think of yourselves more highly than you ought" (Rom. 12:16). When the mind grows inflated by obedience, it risks succumbing to the temptations of pride that come with elevated authority. Distinction must not translate to a lack of responsibility; rightful power is good when applied judiciously, demanding careful oversight from rulers.
Effective rulers manage their authority by simultaneously acknowledging their faults and relating to others. Human nature can often lead to inflated self-views, which tend to amplify with the possession of power. Yet, such authority must be tempered by a readiness to address and correct the shortcomings of others. Paul remarks that the ruler is "God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil." Consequently, the bearer of authority must diligently navigate the pitfalls of power, ensuring that he remains sensitive to the needs and worth of those he leads.
Examples can be discerned in ecclesiastical leadership. Peter, despite holding a divinely appointed leadership role, humbly rejected undue honor from Cornelius, a righteous man, saying, "Stand up; I myself am also a man" (Acts 10:26). Yet, upon uncovering the sins of Ananias and Sapphira, his authority emerged as he addressed them. His actions demonstrated the tension between humility and rightful discipline. Similarly, Paul did not proclaim superiority over his fellow believers; instead, he expressed, "Not that we have dominion over your faith, but our fellow workers for your joy" (2 Cor. 1:24), as he affirmed their steadfastness in faith.
Biblical examples show that the exercise of authority should not lead to arrogance but rather to mutual respect and service among brethren. True authority is not about dominance over others but about uplifting and guiding them. Rulers should always seek to correct with grace, knowing they, too, share in human nature. The challenge lies in maintaining humility while executing authority wisely. Our judgments about ourselves should reflect humility, urging us to consider how our actions impact those entrusted to our care. Acknowledging our equality with others can keep us grounded and aware of our responsibility, ensuring our power does not overshadow our humanity.
David serves as a model in this regard, as he willingly acknowledged the need for humility in his royal duties, declaring, "Lord, my heart is not haughty" (Psalms 130:11). He continuously examined his intentions and expressed sincere remorse when he strayed, often recounting the importance of humble sacrifice before God. He illustrates how true strength lies in recognizing one’s weaknesses rather than succumbing to pride—an acknowledgment that often eludes those in positions of authority.
Ultimately, it is a remarkable and virtuous thing when strong individuals exhibit humility in their hearts. When the powerful remain grounded, they can attain higher virtues that please the Lord significantly, offering Him a humble sacrifice that often becomes rare in positions of strength. Therein lies the true art of leadership: holding a significant position without being ostentatious; being aware of the potential for harm while offering support without overstepping. Indeed, God does not disdain the mighty who serve with humility, for such individuals desire to emulate Him through their actions, exercising their power to benefit others rather than seeking self-glorification. We must recognize that it is not the authority itself that breeds hubris but rather our inner preconceptions and evil inclinations that taint its rightful use.