Embracing God’s Power
Introduction
In Luke 10:19, Jesus declares to His followers, "Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you." This profound statement is not just a historical account but a present-day promise. It speaks to the divine authority granted to believers, empowering them to overcome adversities and demonic forces. This authority, which Jesus bestowed upon His first disciples, continues to be available to us today.
The Promise of Authority
Jesus’ words underscore a vital truth for every believer: we are endowed with spiritual authority. Mark 16:17-18 further elaborates on this promise, stating: "These signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." These signs are not mere suggestions but inheritances of faith for those who walk in obedience.
This authority is a cornerstone of Christian faith. It signifies that believers are not helpless in the face of evil but are equipped to confront it with divine power. However, the manifestation of this power is often contingent on our faith and our willingness to embrace it fully.
The Limiting of God
To fully experience the authority and power that Jesus promises, it is crucial to understand and avoid the pitfalls that can limit God’s work in our lives. Psalm 78 provides a poignant lesson on this issue. It recounts the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness and highlights their frequent doubts and rebelliousness. Verse 41 notes, "Again and again they tested God, and limited the Holy One of Israel."
Despite witnessing numerous miracles, including their deliverance from Egypt and daily provisions, the Israelites continually questioned God’s power and rebelled against His guidance. Their persistent lack of faith and their tendency to test God led them to limit the scope of what God could accomplish through them. This historical example serves as a cautionary tale for us today.
Avoiding the Pitfalls
To walk confidently in the authority promised by Jesus and to avoid the pitfalls that limited the Israelites, we must cultivate unwavering faith in God. Embracing His power means recognizing that our own strength is insufficient and that true power comes from Him alone. Here are some steps to fully embrace God’s power:
Maintain Confidence in God: Trust in God’s ability to overcome challenges. Your confidence should not be based on your circumstances or your strength but on God’s unchanging power.
Act in Faith: Take bold steps that align with God’s promises. Acting in faith means stepping out even when the path is uncertain, trusting that God will guide and empower you.
Speak Life: Use your words to declare God’s promises and power. Speaking life means aligning your language with the truth of God’s Word, rather than speaking from a place of fear or doubt.
Share Testimonies: Boldly share the works of God in your life. Testimonies of God’s provision, healing, and miraculous interventions are powerful tools that inspire faith and demonstrate His ongoing work.
Embrace Obedience: Follow God’s instructions with diligence. Obedience is not just about following rules but about aligning your life with God’s will, which positions you to fully experience His power.
Experiencing Transformation
As you embrace these principles, you will witness the manifestation of God’s power in your life. This transformation is not limited to personal changes but extends to impacting the lives of others and the circumstances around you. God’s power is designed to bring about significant change, reflecting His glory in all things.
Conclusion
Embracing God’s power involves more than acknowledging it; it requires a deep, active faith that transcends doubt and fear. By maintaining confidence in His power, acting in faith, speaking life, sharing testimonies, and embracing obedience, you open the door for God to work mightily through you. Just as the early disciples were empowered to overcome evil and perform miracles, so too are we called to live in that same authority. As you embrace God’s power, you will not only transform your own life but also be a conduit for His transformative work in the world.
