In the game of baseball, pitcher Mariano Rivera of the New York Yankees is the King of the Hill. He is the sport’s all-time greatest closer with over 600 saves. When Mariano comes out of the bullpen, the game is over. Mariano is a picture of power from the pitcher’s mound.

Having the power to perform well in sports is one thing. Having power for life is something else entirely. In life we have three opponents – the lie of the devil, the lure of our flesh, and the love of the world. (1 John 2:15-17)

We have power over our flesh. We all face temptations. We face peer pressure. Our flesh desires physical pleasure – it wants what it wants when it wants it. We often think we’re strong enough to “do it on our own”. But only He gives us the power to stand or flee! (1 Cor. 10:13)

We have power over the world. The enemy appeals to our sense of pride. We brag about our victories and take credit when things go right; we act humble, but we swell up with pride on the inside. God alone deserves the glory.

We have power over the devil. Our enemy is not to be taken lightly. “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8) He appeals to our cravings and tempts us, but God has given us power to stand. (James 4:7)

Our strength is not enough; we need the power of the Holy Spirit living in us to overcome temptation. God is the ultimate King of the Hill. In order to live a life of power, we must depend on Him to shut down sin.