I have Given You Authority to Tread on Serpents and Scorpions, and Over all the Power of the Enemy | Luke 10:19 

by Olivia Salter

AKA

~☆~Synergy~☆~

 

 

Ladies and gentlemen, brothers and sisters in faith, today we gather to reflect upon a powerful verse from the Gospel of Luke. It is a verse that speaks of authority, power, and protection that have been bestowed upon us by our loving Creator. It is a verse that reminds us of the incredible strength we possess as children of God and the assurance that nothing can harm us when we place our trust in Him.

The verse from Luke 10:19 states, "Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing will injure you." These words were spoken by Jesus Christ Himself, as He commissioned His disciples to go out into the world and share the good news of His kingdom. However, the message conveyed in this verse extends beyond the immediate context of the disciples' mission; it extends to each one of us present here today.

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes that He has given us authority—authority over serpents, scorpions, and the power of the enemy. Serpents and scorpions often symbolize evil, deception, and danger in the Bible. They represent the trials, tribulations, and temptations that we encounter in our lives. But Jesus reassures us that we have been given the authority to overcome these challenges.

This authority does not come from our own strength or abilities; it comes from our connection with God. It is through our faith in Him and the indwelling of His Holy Spirit that we are empowered to tread upon the forces of darkness. We are not alone in our battles; we have been armed with spiritual weapons, guided by divine wisdom, and protected by the hand of God.

When Jesus says that nothing will injure us, he does not promise a life free from difficulties or harm. Rather, He assures us that no matter what trials we face, no harm can ultimately separate us from God's love and His ultimate victory. In the midst of life's storms, we can stand strong, knowing that the power of the enemy has already been defeated through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

However, it is important to note that this promise of authority and protection is not a license for reckless behavior or presumption. Jesus' words should not be taken out of context or misapplied. We should not unnecessarily put ourselves in harm's way or seek dangerous situations. Instead, this verse reminds us that as we faithfully follow Christ, we can trust that He will guide and protect us through whatever challenges we face.

So, how does this verse impact our lives as believers? It reminds us to rely on God's strength rather than our own. It encourages us to step out in faith, knowing that we have been given authority to overcome the adversities we encounter. It calls us to trust that God's promises are true and that, ultimately, nothing can separate us from His love.

Today, let us embrace the authority we have been given. Let us face the serpents and scorpions of our lives with confidence, knowing that God's power is at work within us. May we walk in faith, aware of the enemy's tactics but not fearing them, for we have already been given the victory through Christ.

In conclusion, as we meditate on this powerful verse from Luke, let us remember that the authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and above all, the power of the enemy, is not merely a figurative statement but a reality for those who believe. Let us hold steadfast to our faith, trusting in the promise that nothing will injure us when we walk with God. May His authority, power, and protection be evident in every aspect of our lives.

Amen.

The Lord is My Shepherd: A Powerful Psalm of Comfort by Olivia Salter

 

The Lord is My Shepherd: A Powerful Psalm of Comfort

 

by Olivia Salter

Scripture: Psalm 23 (King James Version)

Beloved friends today we gather to meditate on one of the most beloved and profound passages in the entire Bible, Psalm 23. This timeless psalm penned by King David speaks powerfully of God's provision of guidance and comfort in our journey through life. It reminds us that even in the darkest valleys, we have a faithful shepherd who leads, sustains, and protects us. Let us delve into this beautiful psalm and draw inspiration from its enduring truths.

Verse 1: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."

The very first verse sets the tone for the entire psalm. David confidently declares that the Lord is his shepherd—a title associated with care, guidance, and leadership. As the shepherd knows his sheep intimately, our God knows us better than anyone else. The Lord's intimate knowledge and unfailing love for His flock assure us that nothing will be lacking in our lives. In Him, we find complete satisfaction and fulfillment.

Verse 2: "He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the still waters."

David, drawing upon his own experience as a shepherd, paints a picturesque scene of serenity. He likened himself to a sheep that finds nourishment and rests in green pastures. Our Shepherd, who knows our weariness and understands our needs, leads us to places of quietness and peaceful refreshment. Like a skillful shepherd guiding his flock, God leads us beside still waters, providing tranquility in a world filled with turmoil.

Verse 3: "He restoreth my soul; he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake."

In this verse, we witness the restorative power of our shepherd. He is not only concerned with our physical wellbeing but also with the state of our souls. When we are broken, weary, or lost, God restores and rejuvenates us. His guiding hand leads us on the path of righteousness, keeping us on the right track and ensuring that His name is glorified through our lives.

Verse 4: "Yeah, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff comfort me."

Life is filled with dark valleys and moments of profound grief, fear, and uncertainty. Yet even in the face of death itself, David reminds us that we need not fear because our Shepherd is with us. Regardless of the trials we encounter, the Lord's presence and protection bring reassurance and comfort. His rod brings discipline, correcting and guiding us, while His staff offers support and protection.

Verse 5: "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemies; thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over."

In this verse, we see the lavish provision of our shepherd. Even amidst enemies and adversity, God prepares a feast for us, symbolizing His abundant provision and spiritual nourishment. The anointing with oil showcases His investiture of favor, blessing, and overflowing joy upon His beloved children. Our Shepherd's goodness and loving kindness overwhelm us, causing our cup to overflow.

Verse 6: "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

David concludes this psalm with a resounding affirmation of God's eternal faithfulness. He declares that goodness and mercy will accompany him every step of the way throughout his life. As we too journey with our Shepherd, we can be confident that His goodness and mercy will faithfully pursue us. And beyond this life, we have the assurance of dwelling in the house of the Lord forever—that glorious eternal home He has prepared for us.

Dear friends, in Psalm 23, we find a profound and enduring declaration of God's love, care, and faithfulness towards us. David's words serve as a timeless reminder that even in the most challenging seasons of life, we have a shepherd who guides, protects, and provides for us. May this psalm be etched into our hearts, reminding us to place our complete trust in our loving Shepherd, who leads us from green pastures to still waters, restores our souls, comforts us in times of darkness, and promises us an everlasting home in His presence. Let us surrender ourselves to the care of the Lord, our faithful Shepherd, and experience the depth of His incredible love. Amen.