Faith Filled Family Magazine October 2016 | Page 73

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s and scorpions , and over all the power of the enemy , and nothing shall by any means hurt you .” The disciples were surprised by the authority they carried . They were amazed by the authority they had over demons . Similarly , many Christians today either don ’ t assert , or don ’ t properly use this authority . In Mark 16:17- 18 Jesus says : “ And these signs will follow those who believe : In My name they will cast out demons ; they will speak with new tongues ; they will take up serpents ; and if they drink anything deadly , it will by no means hurt them ; they will lay hands on the sick , and they will recover .” This scripture reveals that we have the authority , and the ability to cast out demons . We also can rely on the covenant that no harm will come to us in our pursuit to do what Jesus did . What then are the requirements for walking in spiritual authority ? We have to do more than walk the narrow path alone .

First , we must recognize that we are at war . Ephesians 6:12 paints the picture for us : “ For we do not wrestle against flesh
and blood , but against principalities , against powers , against the rulers of the darkness of this age , against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places .” This is why we are encouraged to put on the armor of God later in this passage . If we attempt to fight a supernatural fight with our own might we will lose . 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 reinforces this statement by saying : “ 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 ,”
Secondly , we must understand why wearing the footwear of
“ the preparation of the gospel of peace ;” ( Eph 6:15 NKJV ) is so important . Shoes make us ready to move forward . The footwear of a soldier can sustain various terrains , and make their movements sure . The shoes are where stability can be found . In the same way , the gospel is where we find peace , stability , and the promises of God . The gospel is where we find our authority . For every step we take in battle we take sure , fearless steps , knowing that harm will not come to us . With each step we rely on the other parts of the armor to shield and protect us as we engage in battle .
Thirdly , our authority is revealed in the declarations we make . Our words become powerful when we partner with the word , and with other believers . Like the example of the promotion , you become more effective when you understand policy , and company