Then some of the traveling Jewish exorcists also attempted to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “I implore you and solemnly command you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches!” Seven sons of one [named] Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. But the evil spirit retorted, “I know and recognise and acknowledge Jesus, and I know about Paul, but as for you, who are you?” Acts 19:13-15 (NIV)
Beloved, the devil knows who we are and whose we are. He knows the level of our Christianity because it is through various demonic devices that causes some of us to have a form of godliness but deny the power thereof – (2 Timothy 3:5). Being Christians who have a ‘pew warmers’ mentality can cause our relationship with Christ to degenerate into Apostacy. This inevitably results in a falling away from the true doctrine of the Bible into heretical teachings that claim to be the real Christian doctrine and complete renunciation of the Christian faith, which results in the full abandonment of Christ.
The biblical injunction highlighted in the Book of Acts reveals that anyone who adopts a pseudo-Christianity posture and attempts to piggyback on the anointing of the true believers will suffer ultimate embarrassment and be put to shame.
It is evident that in order to live a purpose-driven life we need to pursue our purpose in God. Dr. Myles Munroe in his Book “In pursuit of Purpose” stated, “if you have made decisions that have interfered with God’s purpose for your life, He has arranged a reformation programme to redeem the detours. He uses the experiences to refine you as part of the whole. Purpose transforms mistakes into miracles and disappointments into testimonies”. The author Rick Warren of the book “The Purpose Driven Life” concluded that “Christlikeness is your eventual destination, but your journey will last a lifetime”.
Continue to grow throughout your journey, and transform your mistakes into miracles.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we recognise that there is no quick fix or on-the-spot solution to instantly resolve our problems, remove all temptations, and release us from growing pains, for growth is gradual. We repent of our disobedience that caused the enemy to have a foothold/stronghold on our lives and in the name of Jesus we pray that You dispossess demonic spirit influences over our lives. Break every bondage of spiritual stagnation and set-back; and create in us a pure heart and renew a right spirit within us, in Jesus’s name. Amen.
Read: Acts 19:13-17; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Psalm 51:10
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 62; John 9:35-41; John 10:1-21; Ruth 3; Ruth 4
