Scripture: Luke 10:20
Returning from ministry, the seventy were overjoyed at their power for ministry! The very next verse says, “Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” The seventy returned amazed at what God had done. They didn’t understand the authority that went with their position. They thought it belonged to them. They were impressed with themselves because the demons were subject to them in the name of Christ. In verse 20 what the Lord reveals to us is that each level of power has a corresponding character qualifier. Experiencing victory through the dunamis-anointing can open the door to pride. If we want to see the full measure of the power of God in operation through us, we must develop the character qualities of Christ within ourselves that will sustain the power. Pride will forfeit dunamis. In the development of the power of God it is very, very normal that when we first see the gifts of the Spirit pride manifests in our life because it is so exhilarating. It is so supernatural and it so brings us into a different dimension that it is very easy to get an attitude.
1) The seventy disciples developed that attitude. Jesus called them on it and demanded an adjustment in their attitude or they would end up forfeiting the dunamis He had given.
2) There is no place for pride when we are moving in the power of God. The Word says, “Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.” We have to put that ploy of the enemy under our feet which was exactly what Jesus was teaching!
- Pray that God will continue to reveal Himself to you, and all creation more and more, that men may fear Him and recognize their need for Him
- Pray that you will be such a light in your world that men will see your light and glorify God because of you. (Matt 5:13-16)
- Pray that the Holy Spirit will show you areas where you have exalted yourself, glorified yourself and your abilities, your goodness or your generosity. Ask Him to teach you to be humble. (Jam 4:6-8)
- Pray that whenever you do anything commendable and praise worthy, whether men applaud you or not, you will learn to honestly and humbly have the disposition – like Jesus taught His disciples – \”I am only an unworthy servant.\” (Luke 17:10)