Scripture: Acts 19:11-20
In Acts 19, God was doing unusual miracles through Paul’s hands so that his reputation was widespread among the people. Verses 14-16 say, “Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, ‘Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?’ Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them and prevailed (ischuo) against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.” This incident brought the fear of God because it demonstrated the real and the counterfeit. Authority and power in Christ is the product of relationship, obedience, testing and character development. The Holy Spirit makes power available to those of us who know Him, to those of us in His family. The words and actions of sons and daughters carry weight and power through family relationship with the Father. Our prayers will move God’s Hand, demons will bow and flee!
- Note that when praise is given through very difficult circumstances it becomes a sacrifice. The sacrifice of praise is the fruit of our lips (Heb 13:15). Barren lips do not praise Jehovah but rather complain.
- Make this season one of continuous praise to the Lord (Psalm 34:1-3). Take time to seek out for praise and worship music. Listen to it. Dance to it. Sing along to it. Sing new songs to Jehovah (Psalm 98, 150).
- Open up the scriptures and read to God psalms of praise and adoration to Him. Write love letters to Him counting your blessings. Take moments to simply let Him know audibly that you love and adore Him.