Running head: WHO IS IN CHARGE, REALLY?
Who is in Charge, Really?
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Liberty University
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WHO IS IN CHARGE, REALLY?
With so much damage, it is a foreign concept for people to interact with one another
with out appointing a person in charge (Stewart, 2012). A literary favorite of mine and one of a
select few worthy of a second reading, William Paul Young’s (2017). In the story, The Shack
Papa, Jesus, and Sarayu entertain a conversation with Mack regarding our human need to place
people in a hierarchy or chain of command (Stewart, 2012). The Trinity suggest that this is what
destroys relationship with one another as we manipulate those around us (Stewart, 2012). I have
always struggled with this abstract concept discussed by Papa. Do I really manipulate others for
my own purpose and fulfillment? At first speculation, I would adamantly answer that I do not
use others. However, while pondering this a bit more, I wonder if I claim power in my
relationships without completely realizing it.
I have a very strong and take-charge personality blend that I am working to soften
around the edges. I attempted to apply this concept of power specifically in one of my
relationships. I am blessed to work and spend time with three of my dear friends. The four of us
enjoy 40 hours per week of laughter, praying, sharing, and the occasional prank. We all work for
different branches of our county government as equals, each as an individual representative in
our joint office. After work, the mischief continues via an ongoing group text message. Being
the oldest of the four and having a “get-it-done” view on most things, I give leadership the
group. When the three have suggestions, they naturally defer to my ability to put the plans in
motion. Stewart (2012) and Papa suggests that the power struggle is present in our relationships,
though in my office relationship, I would disagree.
The Biblical view places high value on relationships. Paul suggested in, Romans
12:18, If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men (NIV). While the world
view suggests that it is the strong that survive, our group may be the exception. While, I may be
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WHO IS IN CHARGE, REALLY?
the “fearless leader” as my lovingly appointed title suggests, I feel that I can enjoy our quartet
without any strings attached or power struggles. Thankfully, Stewart (2012) suggested that with
intentionally, relationships can be based not on power but on a love for others above ourselves.
Our group has been a safe place where I can practice living out Philippians 2:3, of doing nothing
out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves
(NIV). In our quartet, who is the boss, really? I would suggest none of us as I see our quartet as
a mutually beneficial relationship based on a deep growing bond of appreciation and
graciousness. Though now, I am carefully monitoring my other relationships for any personal
signs of power struggling as I consciously remind myself to regard others more highly.
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WHO IS IN CHARGE, REALLY?
References
Stewart, J. (2012). Bridges not walls: A book about interpersonal communication. New York,
NY: McGraw Hill.
Young, W. P. (2007). . Los Angeles, CA: Windblown Media.The shack
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