“Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them. Nothing will injure you” – Luke 10:19 NLT
In a monarchy system, the king has the highest position of authority and influence in the state, and others submit to his will. Typically, his first child is given the legal authority to rule on behalf of the king when he is not present. This legal right gives him the authority to act in the stead of the king while he is away.
The life of a believer is not far-fetched from this analogy. We see from our anchor verse that we have been given authority over the wiles of the devil. This authority given to us should instil a high level of confidence in us, in our journey of purpose. The understanding that we are free from the shackles of the devil, and he has no power over us, helps us go about fulfilling our purpose more confidently.
Because we believe in the finished work of Christ, we have been made sons of God, given the authority to trample on snakes and scorpions, and to overcome all the power of the enemy (Mark 16:17-18, Romans 8:15). It is not enough to have the authority bestowed upon you, you need to be conscious of it and walk in this reality. You are a child of God, and you need to be enlightened about your place in Christ.
In Luke 10, Jesus sends out His disciples to preach the Gospel across different towns. Verse 17 tells us that they came back rejoicing, with the result that demons were subject to them in His name, Jesus however already discerned this by revelation (vs 18).
Dear believer, you need to see yourself in this position of authority by revelation through the Word. The more you read your Bible, the more you are informed and conscious of who you are – a Child of God! See it, know it, and act like it (Ephesians 1:5, 1 Peter 2:9). You have the Spirit of God in you! Beware of the devices of the devil and put an end to them by your authority in Christ (2 Corinthians 2:11). Satan is fallen, trample on him!
Authority emphasizes position and identity. What a privilege it is to be called sons of God! This is our position and our identity; we are envoys of God on earth. At work, in school, in bad times and good times, through that struggle and hurdle, remember that you are more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37).
Dear believer, it is vital that you see yourself as God’s ambassador, speaking with the authority given to you. To win in this war, you must know who you are in Christ and the authority you have as a believer. see yourself as God’s child and walk in this consciousness.
Bible Reading Plan: Isaiah 13-17