I give you power to tread on serpents and scorpions
Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you (Luke 10:19, ESV)
Jesus spoke the words above to His disciples. He gave them authority over all the power of the enemy. Authority is the right and liberty to exercise power. It means the right to exercise control over someone or something. Authority over demons, therefore, means we have control over what demons are doing. If we find demons doing something, authority gives us the right to command them to stop, and they will stop! They know and recognize spiritual authority even better than we do! The Lord has given us this control!
Jesus uses the figures “serpents and scorpions.” It is obvious He is not talking about literal snakes and scorpions. The meaning is seen in the next phrase “over all the power of the enemy.” Note the word “all”, meaning there are different forms of operations of Satanic power. Snakes and scorpions are simply different modes or forms of manifestation of Satanic power. They become have the ability to sting and inoculate their victims with poisonous venom. Ephesians 6:12 tells us Satan’s kingdom is in ranks, and these powers work in different ways.
Jesus says He has given us authority over all the power of the enemy, whether these powers are snakes or scorpions. He assures us that nothing shall hurt us. I have repeatedly emphasized the importance of believing the Word. It matters whether you accept these words as true or not. The day these words become your reality, and you both understand and believe them, that will be the day Satan will pack his luggage and leave your life!
MEDITATE
What is authority? How is it related and different from power? I want you to take a moment and meditate on the verse above. Think upon it and say it to yourself again and again.
APPLY THE WORD
God is speaking the words of the verse above to you right now. The ball is in your court. As far as He is concerned, you are in charge! May you not tolerate anything of Satan in your life or those around you!
PRAY
Thank the Father for giving you such authority.
Free Mini E-book: From Spiritual Dryness to Flourishing
Desire to know more about the spiritual authority &power which the Lord Jesus Christ bequeathed to born again Christians
Good to know! I have written a few devotionals that should help you with this. You can see more articles here
https://patrickoben.com/tag/authority/
You can always reach out to me with any questions. Blessings!