LUKE 10:19

 I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.

TO PONDER

Are you ready to trample on snakes? Australia has plenty, so it might be possible. This text reminds me of the snake handling churches in the USA, that accept the alternative ending of Mark’s Gospel. This text permits followers whose faith is strong to handle deadly snakes and drink poison. (By the way, one of their leaders died recently…of snakebite).  

But here Jesus is promising protection from evil while we are engaged in spiritual warfare. The previous verse has 72 missionaries returning from some ministry stuff, ‘with joy’. They are gushing about how they could work wonders through the power of Jesus. And Jesus is giving them, and us, a safe passage and protection from every assault of the enemy. Because the more ministry activities we are involved in, the more we become vibrant disciples, the more the enemy will try and sabotage it. 

God remains in charge. God has the final authority. God has defeated the evil one once and for all, meaning we too have an agenda for rejoicing. 

PRAYER:In our work and play Lord, continue to watch over us. Forgive us for the times we let the enemy get in the way of your work. Thank you for the protection you constantly provide. Amen  

Today's devotion written by Mark Simpfendorfer, LifeWay Epping