June 17

Luke 4:31-37 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

32and they were astonished at his teaching, for his word possessed authority.

36And they were all amazed and said to one another, "What is this word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out!"

Observation

I am reminded of the power and authority of God’s word. It is true people were astonished by how Jesus taught and explained God’s word. However, it was more than the person Jesus. It was the word of God the Almighty itself that it had that authority and power. “His word possessed authority.” So when Jesus taught in the synagogue, people experienced its authority. When Jesus performed miracles such as casting out the spirit of an unclean demon, people experienced its power. God’s word has unrivaled authority and astonishing power that delivers people from the bondage of darkness.

Application

Do I continue to experience authority and power of God’s word? How would I know? A deeper understanding of God’s word would continue to cause me to acknowledge its authority, the right to make decisions in life. It would also enable to depend on its power, the ability to influence my action in life. It will have to do with an on-going transformation of my heart that is validated by obedience in action. Authority of God’s word would direct all that I do. Power of God’s word would dictate all that I am.

Prayer

Father in heaven, I ask of the ever-felt presence of the Holy Spirit in my heart as well as today’s activities. I truly desire to experience authority and power of your word alive and active today. May your name be magnified through my obedience in action throughout the day! In the name of Jesus. Amen

--p. han