Brethren,

I have spoken here before about the authority we have been given.  It is authority “for”, not “over”.  When Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, He was not just giving a lesson in good fellowship, but defining the very character of authority in the Kingdom of God.  He said that He did not come to be served, but to serve.  Authority is not about making, or convincing, people to do what you want.  It is about serving them without thought for our own lives.  Even secular corporations are recognizing the power of “authority for”, though for different reasons (e.g., productivity).

But there is another purpose of authority; a purpose the secular world will never understand – because it is a purpose played out only in the supernatural realm.  The authority purpose I am speaking of is authority “against”.  Go with me to Ephesians 6:10-12:

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.  Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this dark age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in heavenly places.

The “power” mentioned in the first sentence of this passage is the “power to rule”, or “Kingdom authority”, of God.  It is the same authority that Jesus gave the 12 disciples when He sent them out – the authority over demons and diseases.  He sent them out to teach them authority against.  It is this authority that we are to be strong in.  NOTE:  This is not a request or an invitation; it is an imperative statement – a command.  

I recently had the opportunity to pray backstage at an evangelistic outreach to teenagers.  It was exciting to be part of a little band of intercessors being strong in the power of His might.  We were praying in authority “for” the children gathered, and in authority “against” the evil forces that would distract and discourage them from hearing the Good News.  In essence, we were praying for the dominion of Christ, our King, to be established in that location.  And it happened!!!!  Over 500 children and adults made decision for Christ.

So, I encourage you, brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might; for He is exceedingly mightier than we can imagine.

Having a strong day in the Lord,

Rob