ICS Daily Devotions
Exercise Your Authority in Christ
There should be a difference between our lives and the lives of unbelievers, because while we are in the world, we are not of the world!
Ephesians 2:1-3 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath.
What anyone thinks will always affect their belief system and result in an action. People of the world have their thought life influenced and dominated by the evil one, and there is a stronghold over it, so they will follow the craving of their sinful nature, desires and thoughts.
For us, there is a tremendous difference the moment we receive Christ into our lives, because we are no longer a slave to sin where like we used to be when we were under its bondage. We are now free, and everything that we do should be for the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.
However, we need to remember that it is only in Christ, when we are dependent upon Him and act upon His promises and authority, that we will triumph in life circumstances, trials and temptations. Because man has been a given a free will to choose, the victory that Jesus has won on the cross of Calvary is not automatically ours till we choose to exercise the authority that is given to us. Therefore, let’s take charge of the world’s mental influences by exercising our authority in Christ!
2 Corinthians 10:3-6 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.
Sermon Series: Exercising Your Authority in Christ!
