How Do We Know We Have Power and Authority?

“Summoning the Twelve, he gave them power and authority over all the demons and to heal diseases. Then he sent them to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.” (Luke 9:1-2, CSB)

The verse above in Luke shows Jesus imparting power and authority to the 12 disciples whom He kept closest to Him. Did you know those 12 were not the only ones He released power and authority to? Later, after Christ rose from the dead and had continued to walk and teach the disciples for an additional 40 days, He gave them these final instructions just before He ascended to the Father:

“Then he said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name, they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes; if they should drink anything deadly, it will not harm them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will get well." So, the Lord Jesus, after speaking to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the word by the accompanying signs.” (Mark 16:15-20, CSB)

Notice this scripture, as well as others, which say, “And these signs will accompany those who believe.” This impartation of power and authority was not just for those disciples who walked with Jesus and were taught by Him. This same authority is ours if we believe.

Second, we can exercise that power and authority. We do not have to continue to live a defeated and hopeless life. Most of us will never “go into all the world and preach the gospel,” but we can live a life daily that will glorify the Father and set an example for others to follow. You and I, dear friend, can use our authority to deactivate the triggers that have held us captive for years. Our goal is to take back permanent control of our minds, will, and emotions and end the enemy’s power over us.

My Prayer for You

Eternal Father, I pour out my heart to You for the one reading this message now and for those who will seek it out in the future. My desire is for each and every one to come to fully understand who they are in You and who they are destined to be in Your Kingdom. Teach them Your ways and Your desire for them, and help them understand they are already endowed with everything You as their loving Father have prepared for them to be victorious and successful. We thank You and praise You and humbly come before You in the name of Jesus, Your beloved Son. Amen!

Declaration / Affirmation (read aloud)

I will seek my Father’s will in every decision I make, and I thankfully accept the gifts of power and authority He has bestowed on me. I will bravely stand against any and all forces contrary to His Word and instruction for my life and the lives of my family. Fear does not come from my Father, and I will not walk in it, and I will teach my children to walk bravely and courageously before the Lord. This I will do daily without doubt, hesitation, or fear.