Living Under Jesus' Authority
Matthew 9:6
“I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.”
~ Jesus
The theme for this week deals with:
- Acknowledging Jesus as God AND
- Living under Him as the One who has been given all authority in heaven and on earth.
The questions that face us immediately are, “Do I acknowledge God as an authority in my life?” and “Do I acknowledge God’s authority in the person of Jesus?” Keep in mind that to merely acknowledge God’s existence and to live under Him are not the same. A great reminder of this reality are the demons mentioned in James 2:19 who acknowledge God, but do not willingly live under Him.
Some may believe that the question that needs to be to answered is whether the Jesus who died on the cross is the Lord of Heaven and Earth. But that question has already been addressed in the courts of Heaven; His resurrection from the dead and ascent to the right hand of the Father are the indication of it. The question truly in need of answering is whether His Lordship has been addressed in your heart. Do you confess that Jesus is the Lord of Heaven and Earth – and if so, how are you acknowledging and living under His authority?
Prayer for the Week
Oh Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that You have authority not just to forgive sins, but that You had the authority to lay down Your life for my sin – and had the authority to take it up again (John 10:18). I acknowledge Your authority as my Savior and as my Master. By Your Holy Spirit, inspire and compel me to live under You and Your Word as my ultimate authority, giving You weight above the opinions and authority of all others, including myself; under Your authority I pray and live this. Amen.
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 23:1-6
- The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
- He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
- He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
- Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
- Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
- Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Read the versus of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Pondering Point
What valleys has the Lord been bringing your through lately? Have you been able to chase away any fear by finding comfort in the presence of your Shepherd Jesus? Where is your cup running over? Praise God for these blessings.