We're a society who loves our trophies, plaques, awards, prizes and
titles. We have Oscars, Grammys, Emmys, Opies, Cleos, Doves,
Pulitzers, Nobels, etc. It's nice to be recognized for excelling in
something, isn't it? How did you feel the last time you went to an
awards banquet and they called out your name to come up for some
special recognition? Or...they didn't?
Do you remember when the 70 disciples were sent out by Jesus to
preach and heal? When they all returned, they said, "Lord, even the
demons are subject to US in Your name!" And Jesus responded, "I saw
Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 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.
Nevertheless, do NOT rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to
YOU, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven"
(Luke. 10:17-20).
I can just imagine how pumped those 70 were! They saw miracles and healings happen, at just the mention of Jesus' name! They began to feel the power. It was something they did. They began to look at their "works; ministry; service; performance; style; formula." They may have compared notes on the best way to heal sickness and deliver from demons. You know that, out of 70, there were some leaders who were trying to "franchise" the power of Jesus' name.
And that's why, when they returned, the Lord shifted their focus from their "works" to God's glory. When was the last time Jesus told someone not to rejoice? But here it is. Don't pat yourself on the
back, because your works will not get you into heaven. It's all about
God's grace, mercy and forgiveness...that your name is even written
in the Book of Life!
Friend, if you really want to be used of God; to allow the power of
the Holy Spirit to flow through you; to walk in the authority of the
Word; to have victory over the enemy; and to bring glory to the
Son...forget about you. God will take care of you...as you obey His
Word. And their will be an awards banquet one day, but it just won't
be here.
Have a great day in the Lord, walking in the light of His Word, the
power of His name, and the joy of His salvation...which is a free
gift from Calvary..."not of works, lest any man should boast."
Prayer:- "Our Merciful and Loving Heavenly Father, Lord I commit
myself in to your mighty hand, hold me and guide me and use me
to glorify your Name. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, In Jesus Mighty Name I Pray, Amen."
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