July 7 | Luke 10:19-20

“Behold, I have given you the authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over every power of the enemy, and nothing will ever hurt you. Nevertheless, don’t rejoice that the spirits submit to you, rather rejoice that your names have been written in heaven.”” (Luke 10:19–20)

If you go to a fancy party with a celebrity, they check to see if your name is on a list. If it is, you’re in. If not, the bouncer turns you away. You have to have the right credentials to get in.

Jesus sent out his disciples in ministry. He gave them authority to heal sickness, cast out demons, and preach the good news of his coming. You still have that authority as a Christian today. But the disciples were most impressed with how demons fled from them.

You have great authority in Jesus’ name. But even greater than this inheritance of his authority and power is the blessing of being citizens of heaven. He has made us heirs in him.

Your name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. You have eternal life because of Jesus’ sacrifice and grace. Some people think it’s what you do that gets you into having. But it’s who you know, Jesus, the Lamb of God.

God’s power over evil spiritual forces is incredible, but his power to bring a dead spirit alive in Christ, change our character, and make us new creatures able to live with him forever in heaven is the greatest power in the universe. And you are invited to the eternal party.

Action Step: Praise God that your name is written in heaven. You are one of his children, a citizen of heaven, and you will live with him for eternity.

Heavenly Father, thank you that you have written my name in heaven. You have given me an awesome inheritance. I love you for your goodness and mercy to me. You have been so faithful!