The distinguished, learned man with a doctorate degree in theology had been the pastor of a large church for many years. We were discussing "the power," the subject of this book. He looked at me sheepishly and confided:
"Once I was praying for a person and I suddenly felt power in my hand, about to be transmitted to the person in need. But I quickly withdrew my hand."
He withdrew because such a phenomenon was contrary to his theological and denominational tradition, and he did not want to be accused of "fanaticism" by his peers and congregation. While incomprehensible, he gave priority to his tradition over the reality of the power. Sadly, the person in need for whom he was praying continued in need. To my knowledge, the power never returned to the pastor.
A late uncle with whom I would often discuss the deeper things of life, once wrote to me about this power:
"Jim, I know that (the power) is there, but I am not worthy of it. I run from it like the wind. It has touched me on at least three occasions, twice dramatically. I am afraid of the power."
My uncle’s fear was not because of his tradition, he indicated, but because recognition of the reality of the power would require commitment on his part, something he was not willing to give. He was correct about one thing: One cannot accept this power without being changed. To my knowledge, my dear uncle, whom I loved, never again experienced the power.
On the other hand, many other people I have known did not withdraw from the power because of their tradition, nor were they afraid of it. They totally embraced it and, in fact, became instruments of it, greatly impacting the world around them. The power became a source of peace, joy, victory, and fulfillment, not fear. You can experience the same thing.
Experiences such as these have caused me to exhaustively study this subject for many years, and I have learned beyond all doubt that the reality of this power must not be denied, as with my theological friend, nor should it be feared, as with my uncle. The power is totally benevolent, and desires recognition and acceptance by each of us.
This power is the greatest need in the world today. The truth must be told. That is the purpose of this book.