Creating an Image

Gaspar de Guzmán discovered the path to political power, and he became determined to attain and retain that power. Born in Rome in 1587, his father had been counselor to Spain’s King Philip IV. After Gaspar’s two older brothers died, he inherited the title of the “Count of Olivares.”

After his father’s death, as “Olivares” he became Philip’s chief strategist. For 20 years, he was the most powerful person in the Spanish court and the real power behind the throne.

A master manipulator, Olivares realized he could shape opinions by the way he was portrayed. To create the image he wanted the public to have, he sponsored artist Diego Rodríguez de Silva y Velázquez.

Olivares recognized that Velázquez could help him be portrayed any way he wanted. In return for this sponsorship, Velázquez created portraits that pictured Olivares as a man of authority and dominance, a leader that others would fear and respect.

Throughout history, many have been like Olivares. Craving power. Driven to impress others and foster an image. Many are like Haman, who became the power behind the throne in ancient Persia. He was so focused on himself that he once reasoned, “Whom would the king desire to honor more than me?” (Esther 5:6) But Haman eventually would be humbled.

Today, men and women use many means to create and foster a public image, build their reputation, and achieve power. But God reminds us all that He is the real power in the world. Men like Olivares and Haman may fool others for a time. But God knows the truth.

In your life, trust the Lord to shape you into HIS image (Romans 8:29). Seeking to be pleasing in His sight.