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The Dynamics of Christ’s Resurrection
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Embracing the Power of
Christ’s Resurrection

FOUR DIMENSIONS OF POWER worked to bring about the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ, Paul used four distinct Greek words relating to each of these in Ephesians 1:19 in his praying for believers. They are dúnamis, the dynamic power of a miracle and ability; enérgei, the power of active energy; krátos, the power of government and dominion; and ischúos, the power of fortification and strength. In his Epistles he expected that each of these should be released in the lives of believers.

 

THE DYNAMIC POWER (dúnamis) OF THE RESURRECTION.
This is the power of a miracle, the power of transformation, as well as the
enabling power for witnessing.

And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer,
believing, ye shall receive.
Matthew 21:22

 

Day 1The Removal of Unbelief

There is nothing that gets the attention of Jesus like someone who will just simply believe Him. By this, we mean someone who will take a jump into His arms without checking everything out to see if He really is Who the Bible says He is. There are all kinds of scholars and skeptics out there ready to tell you all sorts of things about Jesus that are designed to destroy what little faith you may have. Don’t pay any attention to what they’re saying. Just pray for them and you believe. Let’s call it “naked faith.” Press through the unbelieving crowd. Reach Him like the woman you’ll read about on day two.

Matthew 13:58He did not many mighty works (dúnamis) there because of their unbelief.

 

Hebrews 3:12Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

 

Mark 5:35,36While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue's house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further? As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe.

 

LORD,I confess my unbelief has hindered the release of Your power in my life. I renounce this and say I am ready to believe You. Please release Your faith in me—and in these I hold before You. Each one of these has fallen into a hole deeper than they can possibly get out of. Only a miracle from You can help. So I’m expecting a miracle in each one of these. Oh, I thank You!

Release from Unbelief—Mark 6:5,6; Mark 9:23,24

 

 

 

DAY 2Getting the Attention of Jesus

 

All it takes to get the attention of Jesus is an open heart and one little step toward Him. Even if you’re too timid or weak to take the one little step, just look toward Him. Say His Name. He is moved with compassion toward anyone with physical illness—but also anyone whose heart is broken. Or maybe someone who has done something so terribly wrong that there is no means of making it right. When there is no hope anywhere or in anyone—even if your family won’t have anything to do with you—Jesus is non-judgmental toward anyone who will make a move toward Him. The mercy in Him is most powerful.

 

Mark 5:30-34And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue (dúnamis) had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing. But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.

 

LORD, sometimes I feel as helpless as that woman who touched Your clothes. I need Your miracle power for healing as much as she did. I know You are near. I reach out by faith to You as she did. Let Your virtue come unto me as it did to her that day.

 
Healing is for anyone who is ailing.—Luke 6:17-19; Luke 9:37-43

 

 

 

DAY 3Bringing Others to Jesus

  All of us know someone who is sick—maybe in their body, maybe in their emotions or in their minds. Others are sick in their conscience. This means they don’t know who they are, or they’re afraid to admit who they really are. Well, let me tell you, there is nothing anymore wonderful than bringing people like this to the Lord. Maybe you can take them somewhere to a meeting where “the Lord is moving,” but don’t wait for that. You can bring them to the Lord in prayer. And then, what a wonderful feeling that will give you, just to know that you have talked with the Lord about someone who is sick. What if they aren’t healed? Many people don’t seem to be healed right away. Just keep on bringing them before the Lord. And remember, there are more ways for a person to be healed than just in their body. Getting healed in their soul is a wonderful thing.

Luke 5:17-25And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord was present to heal them. And, behold, men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy: and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him. And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus. And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee. And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone? But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answering said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts? Whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house. And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God.

 

LORD, I need help. I’ve tried, and tried to get up from this pit I feel like I’m in. All the advice others have given me has only brought on confusion. Won’t You please send someone into my life who can truly help me come to You and get to know Your power. Maybe it’s somebody I already know, maybe somebody I don’t know. Please don’t let me be deceived anymore. And, please let them be somebody that really knows You.

Blessing the Lord for His Healing Power—Psalm 103:1-5

 

 

DAY 4Power for Weakness

There’s not one among us who does not feel weak much of the time. Some of us operate our lives out of weakness all the time. Our friend the Apostle Paul knew much about weakness. To the Galatians he said,  And don't you remember that even though taking in a sick guest was most troublesome for you, you chose to treat me as well as you would have treated an angel of God—as well as you would have treated Jesus himself if he had visited you? What has happened to the satisfaction you felt at that time? There were some of you then who, if possible, would have given your very eyes to me—that is how deeply you cared! And now have I suddenly become your enemy simply by telling you the truth? I can't believe it. —Galatians 4:14,15. [MSG]

Some have concluded from this that he was nearly blind. Yet, he was an utterly believing believer who learned the secret of living by the faith of the Son of God. In spite of whatever infirmity he may have had, he learned to place the emphasis of his life on Christ Who lived in him. Therefore, he could say, when I am weak, then am I strongII Corinthians. 12:10

II Corinthians 12:9And He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength (dúnamis) is made perfect (brought to its fullness) in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power (dúnamis) of Christ may rest upon me.

 

Galatians 2:20I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.

 

FATHER, if weakness makes me a candidate for Your strength, then I am a candidate! I open up my life right now for Your risen and glorified Son to live in me. I want Him to move through me. To release in me the power of Your grace to overcome the moral weakness that has followed me—the physical weakness—the emotional weakness—the spiritual weakness. Make me a vessel for Your power that will make me a blessing to those around me.

 

The Coming of Strength—Isaiah 35:1-10

 

IT IS ONLY BY THE GRACE OF GOD THAT WE CAN HAVE SALVATION. No human being can attain a goodness on their own that will make them acceptable before God.

DAY 5Waiting on God for Power

It takes a disciplined heart to learn to wait before the Lord. But many of us have become too busy in life. We’ve substituted “busyness” for devotion. Today, let’s ask the Lord to give us the grace to overcome this spirit that has laid hold on us. Yes, it’s a “spirit,” and it is not the Holy Spirit. It’s most probably a driving spirit that makes us restless and unable to just be still before the Lord. As we pray about this, let’s believe for a miracle. Maybe a deliverance is what is needed. There’s not one of us but who can accomplish much more, with more wisdom and more strength, if we take time first to be still and wait on the Lord. Remember Moses at the Red Sea.

Luke 24:49And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you; but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power (dúnamis) from on high.

 

Exodus 14:13,14And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever. The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.

LORD, release in me the strong desire to wait on You till I am endued with Your power. Bring upon me a hunger for Your Spirit, and Your Word. Convict me to know the most important thing I can do is wait on You till Your Spirit moves freely in me and through me. Now, I hold these others before You. Cause them to desire Your Spirit’s presence in their lives.

The Promise of Power for Those Who Wait before the Lord—Luke 24:44-49

 

 

 

DAY 6The Power of God’s Spirit

When John the Baptist said, He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghose and with fire (Matthew 3:11), he meant what he was saying. John was baptizing with water, but Jesus would “immerse” His disciples in something far greater. The Holy Spirit and the fire of His power would enter their lives and change them to the very core of their beings. Never again would they be the same. Many people all over the world are receiving this same baptism today. 

Many of us have discovered, however, that we’re still left with a humanity that often tries to take back what was taken by the Spirit. But, we’re also discovering that God’s power is greater, and He stands ready to regain what we’ve tried to reclaim.

 

Acts 1:8But ye shall receive power (dúnamis), after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

 

Ephesians 3:14-16For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man;

 

LOVING FATHER, please increase in me the desire to be filled to overflowing with Your Spirit! I yield to Him Who has come to dwell in me. I long for Him to move through me with the fire of His power. Please use my life to touch others. Release compassion in me toward the weak and sick. Let the power of Your Spirit use me as an instrument of healing. Help me remember that I don’t have to be physically strong and smart to be useful in Your Kingdom. I just have to be a vessel for Your power.

The Great Commission—Matthew 10:1; Matthew 28:18-20

 

 

 

 

DAY 7Power and Grace for Witnessing

Too many of us are timid when it comes to witnessing. It’s not a difficult thing to do if we just listen to the directions from the Lord Jesus Who gave orders for His disciples to wait till they were endued with power to witness. Sometimes we can witness without really trying to. In fact, Jesus said, “You shall BE witnesses.”

One day my wife Glenda and I were in Wal-Mart looking at something while a clerk stood nearby. Glenda remained there while I went to another part of the store. When I came back, she was talking with the clerk. When I had left, the woman came over to Glenda and said, “Oh, what I would give for my husband to speak to me like yours spoke to you!” Then, right there in the store, we shared with her the Gospel and prayed with her. It was a gentle thing. We don’t always have to be loud vessels pouring forth fire.

 

Acts 4:33And with great power (dúnamis) gave the Apostles witness of the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.

 

Hebrews 2:3,4How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard Him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers (various) miracles (dúnamis), and Gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to His Own will?

 

FATHER, I don’t know who I might meet today. So, I ask You to please let me BE a witness for You. I thank You for Your grace that released Your power in my life. Today I will discover Your power can move in me even when I’m not trying to be a witness. Now, release the healing grace of Your power upon these I hold before You. Teach them to walk in the power and grace that You give so freely to hearts that are hungry and open.

Becoming a Vessel of Miracle Power—Acts 4:29-31; II Timothy 1:6-8

 

 

 

 

DAY 8Released from the Energetic Power of Disobedience

For some of us, one of the most difficult things in life is discovering what God does want from us. But, when we open ourselves to the energetic force that comes from the resurrection of Christ, God’s will becomes effortless. The fact is, when the energy of His Resurrection is at work in us, we become the will of God. Wherever we are and whatever we are doing, we become vessels through whom He makes Himself known. Delighting Him becomes our greatest delight. Step by step, moment by moment, He expresses Who He is through us. It is then that wherever we are, what He is doing becomes evident to those around us. Disobedience disappears and His loving presence becomes known. As we grow up into Him in all things, we become constant expressions of His will.

 

Ephesians 2:1,2And you hath He quickened (made alive), who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh (as a force of energy) in the children of disobedience (those who have given their lives over to disobeying God).

 

Ephesians 4:14-16That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

GRACIOUS LORD, I submit to the energetic force of Christ’s Resurrection to become free from the energetic pull of the world. That pull has produced a disobedience in me. Please forgive me for allowing the world to have so much influence over me. As I yield to the energy coming from You, released out of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, I claim that You are making me into a new person.Please, let the people I communicate with today be aware of Your love and grace.

What We Are by Nature Being Overcome by What We Become by Grace—Ephesians 2:1-10

 

 

 

 

DAY 9The Subduing Power of the Resurrection

There are many people whose desire it is to serve the Lord but who are overcome by forces­—in them and around them—that oppose His Kingdom. Their answer lies not in resolutions to do better, but, rather, in discovering the energetic force of Christ’s Resurrection. According to the revelation given to Paul, it was our resurrection too. Oh, but to know this! To live in it! To be vessels through whom He, in His living glory, might be known!

Our Scripture and prayer today moves toward bringing our every thought, desire and act into submission to the Christ Jesus. This means, we will come to a new place of purity and rejoicing in relationship with Him. As He works in us to subdue all the opposition at work in us, we will wind up with a fresh new love for Him and His Kingdom’s work. This means a fresh new love for people around us who still suffer through the pains of life.

 

Philippians 3:20,21For our conversation (the manner and the resource for our living) is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body, according to the WORKING (through the energetic force of His resurrection) whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto Himself (bring under subjection all things in us that oppose Him and displease Him)

 

Psalm 132:13-16For the LORD hath chosen Zion; He hath desired it for His habitation. This is My rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it. I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread. I will also clothe her priests with salvation: and her saints shall shout aloud for joy.

 

FATHER, I hold myself before You today. Please subdue in me every force of my own humanity that opposes the movement of Your Life in me, and through me. Bring my desires and fears under Your control. Through the power of Your Spirit, release in me a deeper desire toward Your Word. Teach me from it. Grant me the Spirit of Revelation as I take time today to study Your Word. And, O, LORD God, do the same in these I hold now before You!

Receiving the Energy of Christ’s Life—Romans 7:4-6; Colossians 3:1-4

 

 

 

DAY 10The Energizing Power of Love

It’s a sad thing to see a person who knows all the right things about his religion, but doesn’t know much at all about love. The real fact of the matter is this: the love that the Lord Jesus is ready to release in us is more important than understanding all the—are the words of I Corinthians 13. Someone has wisely suggested that taking this chapter and reading it everyday, for at least a month, will change your life. Let me suggest that you try doing this. The Word of God holds within it an energetic force that will work that very Word into one’s being.

 

Galatians 5:6For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth (ischúos, has strength to accomplish) anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh (from energéo, is energized) by love.

 

John 13:34A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

 

DEAR LORD, please set me free from my lack of love toward certain people. For long enough this has bound me and kept me from reaching out to them. I’ve purposely stayed away from some of them, while what they really need is someone to love them with the love that You give. Please help me find the time and the way of expressing Your love toward these people. Release the energy of Your love in me. Let it bring forth faith so I can be a useful vessel in Your Kingdom.

 Discovering the Source of Real Love—I John 4:7-13

 

THOSE WHO KNOW THE GRACE OF GOD AT WORK IN THEIR LIVES HAVE A LIVING HOPE. Indeed, there is no hope for any of us apart from the grace of God revealed in Christ Jesus.

DAY 11Receiving the Energy of God’s Word

The Word of God is an energizing force. Its spiritual energy will work in us when we spend time with it. I’ve found, and so can you, that God’s Word is the one thing above all others that can remain constant before us. The world, the flesh and the devil do not like this, and will do all they can to keep us from the Word. But, with a discipline brought in us by the Holy Spirit, we can overcome these forces and find the time to spend with God’s Word—daily. To do this at the beginning of the day is best for most of us. But then, also, going to sleep with the Word finishing our day is good also. The strength we gain will enable us throughout the day, keep us through the night, and awaken us with new life in the morning.

I Thessalonians 2:13For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the Word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the Word of God, which effectually worketh (from energéo, “is an energizing force”) also in you that believe.

Psalm 19:7-11The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.

LORD, I yield to the energizing power of Your Word. Give me a new and deeper love for truth—Your Truth. Help me to study Your Word and discover its power. I need the help of Your Spirit in doing this. Please help me learn from it and grow thereby.

What God’s Word Will Do in Us—Psalm 119:25-32; Hebrews 4:12; II Timothy 3:16,17

 

 

 

 

DAY 12Finding the Energy for God’s Will

Sometimes what the Lord requires of us calls for more energy, wisdom, and understanding than we have. This can be a very good thing for us, for it throws us onto depending more and more on Him. And that’s His plan for us. If we only did what we could do out of our own strength, then His Kingdom would never spread in the earth. 

When God calls us into something that is beyond our ability, and we yield in obedience to Him, it causes us to grow in our knowledge of Christ. In fact, it can make a new person out of us and bring us into a relationship with Him that is spiritually warm, loving and full of His Life.

Philippians 2:13For it is God which worketh (energéo, the energizing force) in you both to will and to do of (energéo, “to provide the energy for”) His good pleasure.

Psalm 68:28Thy God hath commanded thy strength: strengthen, O God, that which Thou hast wrought for us.

Proverbs 16:1The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the Lord.

Isaiah 26:12Lord, thou wilt ordain peace for us: for Thou also hast wrought all our works in us.

Hebrews 13:20,21Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the Everlasting Covenant, make you perfect (make you fully qualified in your character and manner of life) in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to Whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

GRACIOUS LORD, I don’t have the energy required to work out Your will in my life. Now, as I wait before You, let the energy of Your Resurrection work in me. Let the energy of Your Word work in me. Let the energy of Your love work in me.

Finding How Far God’s Energy Will ReachEphesians 1:11; 3:20,21; II Corinthians 9:8

 

 

 

 

DAY 13Recognizing the Different Ways God Works in Others

Some people desire to worship very quietly; others wish to express their devotion with shouts. It is a sign of spiritual maturity when we can allow each one to worship in their own way, without becoming distracted. Whatever way someone worships, their worship is for the Lord, not for us.

Paul has admonished us not to compare ourselves one with the other. If we’re doing a small thing for the Lord in one way, and someone else is doing what seems to be a great thing in another way, let us be at ease with each other. We grow in relationship with the Lord when we can recognize others in their own calling.

It is a sign of spiritual maturity when we pray for those who are different; when we pray that the blessing of the Lord will come upon a church that we don’t attend; when we can hold before the Lord in love someone that disagrees with us in doctrine or in the way we worship.

I Corinthians 12:6,7And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh (energéo, “is the energizing force for”) all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal (for the joint profit of everyone present in the church).

DEAR LORD, I thank You for the different ways You have made each one of us. Help me not to be intimidated by those who are different. Help me not to judge them. Help us to work together in harmony. And now, LORD, here are these people that I have judged because they were so different. I could not see how they could be serving You, while they claimed to be doing Your will. I hold them—in love—before Your Throne of Grace. Bring them into the perfection of Your will for them.

 Different Ways God Works in UsI Corinthians 12:4-12; Galatians 2:8

 

WHEN WE KNOW THE GRACE OF GOD. WE CAN KNOW FREEDOM FROM “THE” SIN AND ITS BONDAGE. God’s grace abounds much more powerfully than the Sin that entered the race through Adam.

 

DAY 14Finding the Energy of Prayer

One of the most powerful points of instruction on prayer in the Bible is in the book of James. Tradition tells us he was the Pastor of the church in Jerusalem and that these points had been tested and tried with that congregation.

When a person who is struggling comes to someone for prayer, that person should be very honest and disclose exactly what they know is wrong. Then, the power that comes from the Holy Spirit, will work toward releasing what we might call the energetic force of the Holy Spirit. He will bring into the situation the power that was released unto us in the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And, oh yes, the prayer must be prayed in the Name of the Lord Jesus. Indeed, He is the One Who makes the work effectual.

James 5:16Confess your faults (Gr. paraptoma, transgressions, falling off the path) one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer (much strong praying) of a righteous man availeth much (energéo, becomes the energizing force for working out whatever problem is faced.)

I John 3:22And whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight.

Psalm 10:17,18Lord, Thou hast heard the desire of the humble: Thou wilt prepare their heart, Thou wilt cause Thine ear to hear: to judge the fatherless and the oppressed, that the man of the earth (the anti-Christ) may no more oppress.

GRACIOUS LORD, bring the Spirit of Supplication upon me—and upon these I hold before You. Show us the energizing power of much strong praying. Here are even these who have not come specifically asking for prayer, but whose lives are very needy. Draw them close to You. Bring forth in them the desire to have their lives touched and made right by Your Spirit.

 What Strong Praying Can Bring to PassActs 4:23-33

 

 

 

DAY 15The Triumph of Christ over Death

Take careful note in the following Scripture. It lets us see why it was not possible for Jesus to be kept under the stronghold—that is, the government—of Death while He lay in the tomb. It was because David speaketh concerning Him. The Covenant Word that came through Him was more powerful than Death itself. Death could not keep its prey. Jesus tore its bars away. He not only came forth alive Himself, He also broke death’s stronghold for us. So, we can sing with the Apostle Paul, O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? (I Corinthians 15:55)

Acts 2:23-27Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that He should be holden of (kratéo, “be governed by”) it. For David speaketh concerning Him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face (I held the Lord vividly present in my vision), for He is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

I Corinthians 15:54So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

HEAVENLY FATHER, there are strongholds in us that can only be broken by the power that was manifest when You raised Jesus from the dead. What a salvation You have given us in Him! Thank You! I find Your love, Your mercy, and Your power astounding. Now, as I hold myself—and these that I name—before You, please let the power released in the Resurrection touch each of us.

 Our Determination not to Neglect so Great Salvation—Hebrews 2:1-10

 

 

 

DAY 16Why Christ Can Reign

No one can enter the house of the strong man and spoil his goods until he has first bound the strong man. Let us know quite well that Jesus has bound the strong man! That one is the devil. His goods are sickness, pain, fear, anger out of control, hatred, treachery, unfaithfulness—and on we could go. All his “goods” are spoiled because of the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus. Let us not hold back in commanding the strong man to take what belongs to him from our lives. If we have given him legal ground to deposit any of his trash in us, let us ask our Lord Jesus to destroy in us whatever is pleasing to that enemy of our souls.

Hebrews 2:14Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy (render powerless) him that had the power (krátos, “the dominion; the governmental stronghold”) of death, that is, the devil.

I John 3:8bFor this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy (from Greek luo, undo) the works of the devil.

TRIUMPHANT LORD, I claim Your triumph in my life over all satanic power. I want nothing of devilish influence remaining in me. For long enough the enemy has meddled in my affairs. Today, through the Lord Jesus Christ, I am taking my freedom from his works.

DISTURBING SPIRITS, be gone in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. He broke your power over my life, and over these whose names I now declare. Your intrusion in our lives is over! Jesus Christ is Lord over us.

Thank You, DEAR LORD JESUS, for all You have done. I look to You from this day forward to carry on the work of Your Kingdom in us. Please let Your mercy of Your Government rule in each of us.

The Defeat of the Evil OneHebrews 2:14,15; I John 3:8; Colossians 2:15

 

 

 

DAY 17The Rule of Christ’s Government in  Us

There are people who allow any force to rule in them that will. Often it is simply the rule of their own fleshly desires out of control. Sometimes, what rules in them are the things that life has imposed on them, even from early childhood. Some of the these things include sexual molestation and severe anger that has come against them from their parents or some other person usually older than themselves.

Some people have destructive ideas and practices imparted to them in their younger years, by their playmates or other peers. But, the Lord Jesus is powerful to enter any who want Him, and drive out the darkness that seeks to rule them. He will set up the dominion of His glory instead. What a trade!

Colossians 1:10-13That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing…strengthened with all might, according to His glorious POWER (being empowered according to the krator, the governmental might ofHis glory)...Giving thanks unto the Father, Who has made us meet (qualified us) to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who has delivered us from the power (exousía, the authority) of darkness, and has translated (transferred) us into the Kingdom of his dear Son...

I Corinthians 16:13Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong (from kratéo, maintain strong government in your life).

LORD GOD, I confess there are still things in my own life that are opposed to Your Kingdom’s rule in my life. I don’t want any of these things, but I have no power within myself to break their bondage. Oh, but Christ is alive in me! I am ready today to yield to You and to the strength of Your Government. Please take control of me that I might gain control of myself. As I yield to the rule of Your Throne, I hold these others before You that they might walk worthy of You. Please work in them that they might be empowered according to the might of Your glory.

Receiving Christ’s RuleEphesians 3:16-19; Philippians 3:20,21

 

 

WE ARE ABOUT TO COME UPON THE MOST POWERFUL TRUTH WE CAN KNOW WITH REGARD TO BECOMING FREE FROM SIN’S BONDAGE. Simply, there are two keys: knowing and reckoning.

 

DAY 18What His Dominion Will Mean in Us

 

The person that has discovered the rule of Christ’s Government working in them is someone who is joyful in glory. If we desire this with all our heart it can be worked in us personally by the grace and love that comes to us from His Kingdom. How does this get started in us? Simply ask Him to rule us. This doesn’t have to come over us with a great amount of feeling. The Government of Christ enters through the door of our will. If our will is too weak to desire this, then let us just ask Him to increase the desire in us for the rule of His Kingdom. His grace and mercy will meet us right where we are.

Luke 1:51He hath showed strength (krátos, “dominion”) with His arm;  He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.

Psalm 98:1O sing unto the LORD a new song; for He hath done marvellous things: His right hand, and His holy arm, hath gotten Him the victory.

II Peter 1:2-4Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, according as His Divine power (dúnamis) has given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him Who has called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

O, GREAT LORD, I am ready for You to show the strength of Your right hand in my life. I desperately need You to do this before I commit something that is gnawing at my soul. I’ve tried to overcome this, but am fearful of failing. I don’t want to hurt anyone any more. Please help me overcome the proud imagination of my own heart. Also—there are these others around me who are letting darkness rule in them. I hold them before Your Throne.

The Power of God’s Right Hand—Psalm 118:14-21; Exodus 15:6,7; Psalm 20:5,6; Psalm 44:1-8

 

 

 

DAY 19Acknowledging Christ  Jesus as Our  King

We are ready to join Paul in declaring the full dominion of Christ’s Kingdom. It gained its strength with the Covenant the LORD God made with David as defined in Psalm 2. The power of God’s promise was confirmed when He raised the Lord Jesus from the dead. It continues today in the lives of us who have yielded to its dominion in the innermost parts of our souls. It will become known in all the earth in the fullness of time. Christ will return to claim His full inheritance. Until then, His Kingdom is at work in us who have yielded to Him to be our Lord

I Timothy 6:12-15Fight the good fight along with all other believers. Take hold of eternal life. You were chosen for it when you openly told others what you believe. Many witnesses heard you. God gives life to everything. Christ Jesus told the truth when he gave witness to Pontius Pilate. In the sight of God and Christ, I give you a commandObey it until our Lord Jesus Christ appears. Obey it completely. Then no one can find fault with it or you.

God will bring Jesus back at a time that pleases him. God is the blessed and only Ruler. He is the greatest King of all. He is the most powerful Lord of all. NIrV®

POWERFUL LORD, as Satan’s power has been broken, let Your Kingdom come in me, in my family, in these others I now hold before You. I recognize Your right to reign, not only in all the world, but also in our lives now. O, take Your dominion! Reign, LORD, reign!

He Shall Reign Forever—Revelation 11:15-17; Psalm 72:8,17

 

 

 

DAY 20Sharing the Throne with Jesus

Because of His great grace and power, the LORD God has opened the way for us who have submitted to His Son to come all the way to His Throne with Him. Paul knew this. Beyond doubt, it is part of the understanding the Lord Jesus made known to him by revelation(Galatians 1:12). No matter what was happening in his life, he still knew he was seated with Christ in the heavenlies. This is part of what we call “Ephesians Truth.” Today we will ask the Lord to seal this in our understanding. If we are lacking in understanding, we can ask Him to create within us a heart that hungers and thirsts for the knowledge of His Kingdom. We remember He said, Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filledMatthew 5:6.

What the Lord Jesus revealed to Paul could not be known until after the Holy Spirit had come upon the disciples. Jesus said to them before His Death and Resurrection that He had things to tell them that they could not yet receive. It was after He ascended back to the right hand of the Father that He could make certain things known.

Galatians 1:11,12Brothers and sisters, here is what I want you to know. The Good News I preached is not something a human being made up. No one gave it to me. No one taught it to me. Instead, I received it from Jesus Christ. He showed it to me.NIrV®

Romans 5:17One man sinned, and death ruled because of his sin. But we are even more sure of what will happen because of what the one man, Jesus Christ, has done. Those who receive the rich supply of God's grace will rule with Christ in his kingdom. They have received God's gift and have been made right with him. NIrV®

Revelation 1:4-6Grace be unto you, and peace, from Him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before His Throne: and from Jesus Christ, Who is the Faithful Witness, and the First Begotten of the dead, and the Prince of the kings of the earth. Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His Own blood, and has made us kings and priests unto God and His Father; to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever (krátos, the ruling power effective in His resurrection belongs to Him forever). Amen.

POWERFUL LORD, please work the ways of Your Kingdom into our lives. Conquer us and deliver us from all the ways that are contrary to Your rule. Teach us—I mean my family and these with whom I fellowship—what it means to reign with You.

A Kingdom of Priests—Colossians 1:12,13; Revelation 5:9,10; Romans 5:17

 

 

IT IS NOW, BEING FREE FROM THE SIN, THAT WE CAN LEAD A HOLY LIFE ACCEPTABLE IN GOD’S SIGHT. Human works of holiness can avail us nothing before the judgment seat of Christ.

DAY 21Blessing the King

This age is coming to its consummation. All powers in heaven and earth shall soon acknowledge that the Lord Jesus Christ is King. Then, when all earthly powers have submitted to Him—when every knee has bowed to Him—Jesus Himself shall turn all the Government over to His Father in heaven. 

The grandest celebration on earth will be the celebration of what His grace has accomplished. There will be no person from out of all the ages who can boast in his or her own accomplishment. All honor and glory will go to the Lamb of God.

Ephesians 3:20,21Now unto Him that is able (from dúnamis) to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power (dúnamis) that worketh (energéo) in us, unto Him be glory in the Church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen

Jude 24,25Give praise to the One who is able to keep you from falling into sin. He will bring you into his heavenly glory without any fault. He will bring you there with great joy. Give praise to the only God. He is our Savior. Glory, majesty, power and authority belong to Him. Give praise to Him through Jesus Christ our Lord. Give praise to the One Who was before all time, Who now is, and Who will be forever. Amen. NIrV®

Revelation 5:13Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power (krátos—dominion), be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

LOVING LORD, we say, “Glory to Your Name!” You are powerful and wonderful. We recognize Your right to reign over all the affairs of our lives. We rejoice in Your grace that has opened the way for us to enter Your Kingdom. We rejoice in knowing that You are our King, that all we are and have is now part of Your Kingdom. Now—we bring these others, yet again, in whose lives the rule of Your Throne is needed. Draw them into Your bosom.

Exaltation of the Lord—I Peter 5:6-11; Jude 2

 

 

 

 

DAY 22Why We Need  the Hope of Christ’s Resurrection

Today we will direct our praying toward what we may expect from the strong man. He is the one Jesus said must be bound if we’re going to spoil his goods (Matthew 12:29). Well, right out of the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus there comes the very muscle strength of the Kingdom of Heaven to bind him. That power works to bind principalities and powers as we wrestle them to take away their grip on souls in whom the henchmen of Satan are doing their nasty work. 

Below are some words from Daniel and David about the plans of the enemy to defeat us. You should know that the poor mentioned in Psalm 10comes from the same word in the Original as the meek in Psalms 22 and 37. If we know that God released His power for us when He raised the Lord Jesus from Death’s domain, we need have no fear of any strategic plan Satan may have toward defeating us. We overcome him in the power and Finished Work of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Daniel 7:25And he (the “little horn,” the anti-Christ) shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out  (exhaust) the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time (three and one half years).

Psalm 10:2-4The wicked (one) in his pride doth persecute the poor (the meek): let them (the followers of the wicked one) be taken in the devices that they have imagined. For the wicked (one) boasts of his heart’s desire, and blesses the covetous, whom the Lord abhors. The wicked (one), through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts (all his thoughts are, there is no God).

Psalm 22:26The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the Lord that seek Him: your heart shall live for ever.

Psalm 37:11But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

FATHER, Your promises to us are unchangeable. They are giving me hope that is steadfast and strong. O, I am rejoicing in that hope! This situation we are in has had my family bound in fear. But, because I am placing my trust in the strength that You released for us when You raised Jesus, my fear is gone. Let what You are doing in me come now in these others as I name them before You. Let them begin knowing the promises of Your love and grace toward them.

Our Strong Hope—Romans 4:17-25

 

 

 

 

 DAY 23—Binding the Strong Man

The strong man with whom we contend is the devil himself. His design is to send his demons as emissaries into our lives. He wants to spoil us for usefulness in the Kingdom of God. But, we’re learning that he has himself been spoiled. God did this when He raised Jesus from the dead. Knowing this is what will give you victory in your day-to-day battles. What our enemy has designed for our defeat can be made to backfire on him when we dare to command his withdrawal. We do this in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. His is the most triumphant Name we can know.

Matthew 12:29How can one enter into a strong man’s (ho ischúros, the powerful and mighty one’s) house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man (ho ischúros)? and then he will spoil his house.

Luke 11:20-22But if I with the finger of God cast out devils (Gr. daimon), no doubt the Kingdom of God is come upon you. When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace: But when a Stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him He takes from him, all his armor wherein he trusted, and divides his spoils.(Oh, yes! The One Stronger than he is Jesus!)

DEAR LORD, I see this principle of binding the devil’s strength. What a strength is Yours! When You came from the grave, You bound the strong man of our lives and made it possible for us to be free. I myself to this freedom. Now—there are others I know in whom he still holds dominion. I bring them to You with the confession that he no longer has any right or authority to continue his rule in any of us. Move by Your Spirit upon these I name before you. Prepare them for their freedom in You.

Contending with the Strongholds of the Evil One—Isaiah 49:25; Luke 11:20-22; Matthew 18:18

 

DAY 24Finding Strength for the Conflict

The valiant heroes of faith who went before us conquered hell’s foes through the triumph of the Lord Jesus Christ. He conquered Death for us all and has given us His victory. Thus, in our weakness we are discovering His strength. There are many of us who have struggled with weaknesses only to find that they can be good things for us. They are crowding us into the muscle strength of God’s Kingdom manifested in the Lord Jesus.

Hebrews 11:32-34And what shall I more say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the Prophets: who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight (from ischúros, became “powerful and mighty”), turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

DEAR LORD, please draw these I hold before You up close to Your loving heart. Help them become valiant in their battles. I don’t know what I may face today or tomorrow. Whatever it may be, I am turning my faith toward You to make me strong in it. If there is any kind of conflict, please give me the spiritual sense to know when it is the enemy who is opposing me. Bring upon me and Your people here that operation of the Holy Spirit that Paul called the discerning of spirits.

A Review of Faith’s Power—Hebrews 11:32-40

 

 

 

 

 

DAY 25Overcoming Our Weakness in Praying

There’s hardly one among us who doesn’t feels weak in praying—at least some of the time. This need not continue with us. Before the Lord Jesus returned to His Father’s right hand, He sent the Holy Spirit to dwell within us. One thing He has come to do is to make us strong in praying. In fact, when we don’t know how to pray, His Spirit stands ready to take over in us and make the intercession for us.

It is interesting to note what Jesus asked His disciples when He came upon them and found them asleep, while He was facing the greatest battle of His time of earth. He was in the garden praying and had asked his closest friends to watch with Him in prayer. He went a little way from them agonizing in prayer. When He came back and found his friends asleep, He seemed amazed how weak they were. This just lets us know how much all of us need the help of the Holy Spirit, especially in praying.

Matthew 26:40And He cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not (ischúo, “Aren’t you strong enough to...”) watch with Me one hour?

Romans 8:26Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought (as necessity demands): but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

FATHER, the greatest infirmity in my life is with regard to my praying. Oh, release the Spirit of Supplications in me. Cause me to want to pray without ceasing. Bring the desire to pray upon these with whom I worship. Let us find the power and the glory of Your Kingdom as it will work in our midst. Let Your Kingdom come and change the lives of these I hold before Your Throne.

 

Seeking the Lord and Receiving from Him—Jeremiah 29:12,13; Jeremiah 33:3; James 1:5,6

 

 

DAY 26Renouncing Powerless Religion

Too many have settled into powerless religion making use of songs, sermons, short prayers and quick benedictions. But there is coming in all the earth a spiritual thirst that will not allow souls to go away from their religious meetings, week after week, still thirsting for the Living Water that Jesus promised. Religious ritual and the keeping of laws has no power to accomplish anything in the lives of believers that will make them useful in the Kingdom. Only the Holy Spirit, moving in our midst as He wills, can make us useful for God’s purposes in that Kingdom.

Galatians 6:15For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth (ischúo, “has power to accomplish”) any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature (that is, becoming a new creation in Christ Jesus).

II Corinthians 5:17Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature(a new creation); old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Isaiah 40:31But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

GRACIOUS LORD, I renounce all dead religious practice. Place in me a fervent desire for communion with You, both in the fellowship of Your suffering and the triumph of Your Kingdom. Place this desire in these I hold before You. Here are these souls that I dearly love—and I know You love them—who are in great need. Please draw them toward Your Kingdom and its power. Let the convicting work of the Holy Spirit come upon them.

 Waiting on the Lord—Isaiah 25:9; Isaiah 30:18; Psalm 3,5,21

 

DAY 27A Powerful Relationship with Christ

The longing of the heart in many of us is that we might have a powerful relationship with Christ. It is the Holy Spirit Who will bring this to pass. He is drawing us close, even now, causing our spirits to know that this kind of relationship with Him is possible for us. This very drawing power of His Spirit is making us ready for Him to make His permanent dwelling in us. Oh, what a change this will make in our lives. It is actually this that many desire, without even being able to express what their longing is. That’s the reason many are being drawn to make supplication for others.

Philippians 4:13I can do (ischúoI have strength to do) all things through Christ which strengtheneth (empowers) me.

John 15:4,5,7Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing... If ye abide in Me, and My Words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

II Corinthians 12:9And He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

FATHER, my dependence on You grows daily. My personal strength grows less, but my faith in You—and the power of our relationship—increases. This makes me grow stronger. I love You for this.

Confounding the Mighty—I Corinthians 1:26-31

 

 

 

DAY 28God’s Strength at Work in Weak Vessels

Just because someone has personal weakness does not rule out their being used of the Lord. In fact, He may call a weaker vessel into His service in order to make the strength of His Kingdom more manifest. As the time of the end comes on, more and more weak vessels will become useful to Him. It will be a time of confounding the world which has made much use of people with personal strengths. This is in preparation for the day in which the Lord alone will be exalted.

I Corinthians 1:25-27Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger( ischúros, bears the manifestation of more spiritual muscle power) than men. For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise;  and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty (ischúros, those who depend on their own strengths)

DEAR LORD JESUS, let there come in me a new dependence on the strength You bring into my life. Hold me in Your strength while I go through this trial that is draining me of my own strength. Continue holding me—and these I name before You. Also—let Your resurrection strength come upon those who are undergoing trials and persecution that, it seems, would destroy them. Give them the gift of Your faith

Spending Time with Stephen Who in His Weakness Confounded the Mighty—Acts 6:5-15; Acts 7:54-60

 

 

 

DAY 29Finding Strength  for the Conflicts that Are Sure to Come

Times of weakness come in nearly every life. Even if it is the weakness of old age, or of a debilitating disease, it need not diminish one’s reliance on the strength of the Lord. Those who find their dependence in His strength, even while they are yet physically strong, will learn that God’s strength is better than their own.

Ephesians 6:10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power (krátos) of His might (ischúosbe empowered in the Lord and in the dominion of His might.)

I Corinthians 16:13Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong (kratéo—yield to the governing rule of the Holy Spirit in your inner man).

II Timothy 2:1Thou therefore, my son, be strong (Endunamoo—acquire the strength that comes from God’s power) in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

HEAVENLY FATHER, thank You for seeing my weaknesses—loving me—and giving me strength. I yield to the strength of Your Son’s Government. I am now ready for it to move through me and equip me for the conflicts I am facing. Now—I hold these others before You. Please bring the strength of Your Kingdom in them. Let its power carry them through the trials they are facing. Let them come through with a testimony for You. And, loving FATHER, please let them come through with a faith that is stronger than what they’ve found in the world.

How God’s Power Finds Release through Us—Ephesians 6:10-18

 

 

 

DAY 30Recognizing the Strength of Christ’s Government

The time is coming when every knee shall bow before the Lord. Those who have given honor to His Throne and have bowed before Him already, will rejoice in the day when He alone is exalted. Those who have acknowledged the power, and strength, and glory of His Kingdom will find great joy in that day. Before that Day of the Lord comes, we may expect that His Spirit will move throughout the earth drawing all who will to come unto Him.

Revelation 5:12,13Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power (dúnamis), and riches, and wisdom, and strength (ischúos), and honor, and glory, and blessing. And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power (krátos), be unto Him that sitteth upon the Throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. Amen!

HEAVENLY FATHER, I acknowledge the power and might of Your Kingdom brought into the earth through Your Son. He is our Lord Jesus Christ. I regard His right to reign in the earth over every person. I acknowledge Him as my Lord. Thank You for loving me enough to continue leading me by Your Spirit. I praise You that You are bringing us to know Your Kingdom.

Christ’s Right to Reign; Our Call to Reign with Him—Psalm 2 and Revelation 2:26,27

 

 

 

 

 

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Berean Ministries
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Elk Park, NC 28622-0038

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