God Created You to Rule, Not to Be Ruled
God made the world and everything in it. When He made you, He had a big plan. Genesis 1:26 says God created man in His image to rule over the earth, not to be bossed around by things or people. That means you’re meant to have dominion, like a king running his kingdom, not to let stuff control you. God put a spark in you to lead, create, and make a difference. But sometimes, things try to take over your life and make you feel small. Let’s talk about five things you should never let dominate you—money, sedations (like alcohol, drugs, sex, or food), people, your past, or fear—and how you can stand tall as the man God made you to be.
Don’t Let Money Be Your Boss
Money’s important. You need it for food, clothes, and a place to live. But when you start chasing money like it’s the only thing that matters, it can trick you into thinking it’s your master. The Bible says in Matthew 6:24, “You cannot serve both God and money.” If you’re always worried about getting more cash or buying fancy stuff to impress people, money’s running your life. Instead, use money as a tool. Work hard, be smart with what you earn, and trust God to provide. A real man knows his worth isn’t in his wallet—it’s in who God says he is.
Think of it like a game. Money’s like a soccer ball—you control it to score goals, not let it kick you around. When you save, give, and spend wisely, you’re in charge. You’re telling money, “I’m the boss, not you.” That’s dominion.
Say No to Sedations
Sometimes, life gets tough, and it’s tempting to escape with things like alcohol, drugs, too much food, or even chasing sex to feel good. These are like traps—let’s call them sedations because they make you numb and forget your purpose. The Bible warns in Proverbs 20:1, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging.” These things promise fun but end up stealing your strength. If you’re drinking too much, eating junk to feel better, or chasing wrong desires, they’re dominating you.
Imagine you’re a superhero. Your power comes from staying sharp and strong. Sedations are like kryptonite—they weaken you. God made you to face life with courage, not to hide from it. If something’s got a hold on you, pray for strength, talk to a trusted friend, and take steps to break free. You’re meant to rule over those urges, not let them rule you.
Don’t Let People Control You
You’re going to meet people who try to push you around—maybe a bossy friend, a mean coworker, or even someone in your family. They might try to make you feel like you’re not good enough or tell you what to do. But God says in Psalm 8:6, “You made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands.” That means you answer to God, not people’s opinions. A real man listens to wise advice but doesn’t let others steal his purpose.
Picture yourself as a ship’s captain. You steer the boat where God wants you to go. Other people might shout directions, but you decide the course. Be kind, but stand firm. If someone’s trying to control you, pray for wisdom and set boundaries. You’re made to lead, not follow someone else’s bad ideas.
Leave Your Past Behind
Your past might have some rough spots—mistakes, hurts, or things you’re not proud of. Maybe you failed at something or someone let you down. But here’s the truth: your past doesn’t own you. Romans 8:1 says, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” God forgives you and gives you a fresh start. Don’t let old guilt or pain hold you back from the awesome future He has for you.
Think of your life like a book. The past is just one chapter—don’t keep rereading it. Turn the page! God’s writing a new story for you, full of purpose and adventure. Talk to Him about your past, let it go, and focus on what’s ahead. You’re not defined by what’s behind you—you’re defined by God’s plan for you.
Don’t Let Fear Run the Show
Fear is sneaky. It whispers that you’re not strong enough, smart enough, or brave enough to do what God’s calling you to do. Maybe you’re scared to try something new, stand up for what’s right, or follow a big dream. But 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Fear isn’t from God—it’s a liar trying to dominate you.
Imagine fear as a bully on the playground. You don’t run from it—you face it. God has given you His power to be bold. When you feel afraid, pray, read His Word, and take one step forward. Every time you do, you’re taking dominion over fear and showing it who’s boss.
You Were Made for Dominion
God’s plan for you is huge. Genesis 1:28 tells us to “be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it.” That means you’re called to create, build, lead, and make the world better. You’re not here to be pushed around by money, sedations, people, your past, or fear. You’re here to rule with God’s strength and wisdom. When you live like that, you’re not just surviving—you’re thriving as the man God created.
Think of Adam in the Garden of Eden. God gave him a job: take care of the garden and name the animals (Genesis 2:15, 19). He wasn’t sitting around, letting life happen to him. He was active, making choices, and shaping his world. That’s what God wants for you too—to step up, take charge, and live with purpose.
Take the 45-Day Challenge
Ready to start living like the man God made you to be? I’ve got an action step for you. Head over to FivestarMan.com and sign up for the 45-Day Challenge. It’s like a roadmap to help you grow stronger in your faith and purpose. For 45 days, you’ll get practical tools, Bible-based wisdom, and support from other men who want to live with dominion. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about taking one step at a time to become the man God created. Visit FivestarMan.com today and begin the challenge. Let’s rise up together!
Neil Kennedy is the founder of FivestarMan, a movement dedicated to awakening authentic masculinity through biblical principles and purposeful living.
