Devotion for Tuesday, September 17, 2024

“Or how can one enter a strong man’s house and plunder his property, without first tying up the strong man? Then indeed the house can be plundered. Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters” (Matthew 12:29-30).

Jesus makes clear that we are in a battle in this age. It is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and forces of darkness. The wicked one is bound by Jesus. That is why we read of the Apostles casting out demons and healing. In your house, is Jesus your strong man? You cannot be, for we are weak, but He has already overcome. If you are with Jesus, you shall not be overcome, for He is your strength.

Lord, like a small child, I sometimes push Your hand away and believe I can do it on my own. Guide me to live trusting and depending upon You for all things. Help to not lean on my own understanding, but to abide with You and walk in Your ways. Lead me, O Lord, so that I may now and always walk with You. Yes, there is hostility and a war that is constantly going on. Help me to stay focused upon the hope only You give.

Lord Jesus, without You I can do nothing. Lead me in Your goodness and mercy to humbly walk with You always. Guide me this day so that I may see where I am tempted to leave the path You have set me upon. Continue to teach me how to stand firm in the truth of Your presence. Help me to not rely upon myself, but to always lean upon Your everlasting arms for all things. Guide me now and always in the everlasting way of life. Amen