By Olubunmi Adebayo
*Arising from a recent public discussion on Democracy and governance, I wish to make the following contributions on the need for one to be careful in the use of public office as we engage the reigns of power.*
*Know that power is a delegated trust.*
*Every man holds power either on behalf of a selected few or on behalf of the generality of the people, but ultimately on behalf of God.*
*Please read this :*
*Romans 13: [1]Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.*
*It is therefore important that holders of power across all levels of human existence : spiritual and secular, use the powers that have been given to them judiciously. Indeed as unto God :*
*Ephesians 6:[7] With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:*
*[8]Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.*
*Please by every means use the power in your office to write your name in GOLD, and not in reproach. Everyone who misuses power faces some degree of reproach after leaving office.*
*Use power to wipe away tears from the faces of the less privileged in the society or in the community under your leadership.*
*Use it for nation building and not with arrogance to prove your superiority! Think deeply, which man has superiority anyway?*
*May I ask you this :*
*Today, what are you using the Power or authority at your disposal for?*
*Are you not using it to oppress the people, push them down and show them where power really lies?*
*Are you not using it to help just your friends and cronies even when it is not yet their time and just because they operate as your sychophants or your boot lickers?*
*Are you not using power to divide and rule and create enmity between people against people?*
*What are you using your power for?*
*Remember, the person today you are using your power to oppress or destroy may be the one that will tomorrow be in a position to supervise your son, your daughter or nephew, niece, grandson, granddaughter, stepchild, your sister or brother.*
*How will you feel if the same negative bearing of power is exhibited on these people?*
*Think, my brothers. Think, my sisters. For no man knows tomorrow!*
*Use your office to promote the betterment of others.*
*Be a father, mother, sister, brother, a friend to all.*
*Operate as an honest judge. Hear all sides of every story before deciding fairly.*
*Fear your Creator.*
*Hate none, love God and love all men.*
*Remember, tomorrow is unknown to any man.*
Good day to you
©️ Olubunmi S Adebayo.
