Devotion for Friday, December 26, 2025

“And He summoned the twelve and began to send them out in pairs, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits; and He instructed them that they should take nothing for their journey, except a mere staff – no bread, no bag, no money in their belt – but to wear sandals; and He added, “Do not put on two tunics” (Mark 6:7-9).

Jesus gave them authority.  You and I can do nothing on our own.  When we pray for others, it is by the authority of Jesus.  When we lead, it is under the authority of Jesus.  It seems many in our day act as if they were their own authority.  One cannot prepare for what Jesus will ask you to do.  One can only prepare to serve the Lord at all times and in all places.  Seek the Lord while He may be found and go where He sends you.

Lord, there are so many conflicting ideas in this world.  So many act on their own authority.  Teach me that no matter what I do or who I face, if it is under Your authority that anything You grant will be accomplished.  Teach me that anything I do under my own authority will come to nothing.  Guide me in the way of living so that I become ever more like You.  Teach me what it means to be a disciple.

Lord Jesus, lead me this day and help me to submit to the ministry of the Holy Spirit.  You alone know all that needs to be done.  You alone accomplish what needs to be done.  In and through You, even demons can be set aside.  Not by my power or by any pretense of any authority other than that which You grant, lead me to be faithful and obey all that You command.  Amen.