Rebuke The Adversary
They fought from heaven; the stars in their courses fought against Sisera (Judges 5:20).
A certain Pastor was posted to a church for a new assignment; the church hadn’t grown for many years. So, when he resumed, he decided to fast and pray. One day, while he was praying in the church building, he saw a huge animal, a beast, and as he turned to it, the beast said, “I will not allow you to take my people from me. I’ve been in charge of this church for many years.” In response, the Pastor said, “They’re God’s people; they’re not your people and you will leave this church today, and never return.”
The animal got infuriated and charged toward him; but unafraid, the Pastor declared, “In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, get out NOW!” The beast fell down, and scampered out of the church, to never return. The very next service, when the people came to church, they worshipped and praised God like they’d never done. It was obvious that there was a new move of the Spirit, and the church began to experience unprecedented growth. The devil had been taken out.
Members of the church didn’t know there was an evil force affecting the people inside the church. But thanks be unto God that the Pastor knew exactly what to do. We’re not to negotiate with the “adversary”— that’s one of Satan’s names (1 Peter 5:8). It tells you something; he is one who withstands you in anything. Don’t tolerate or accommodate him around you; get on the offensive.
Ephesians 6:12 says, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Notice that it says, “We wrestle not against…,” not “We wrestle not at all.” Many struggles in life, unable to actualize their dreams, not realizing they’re in warfare. When the forces are up against you, there’s something behind it. Therefore, use what you have; use the Name of Jesus. Don’t fold your arms and watch things go wrong; operate in the spirit; rebuke the adversary and maintain that which the Lord has given you.
CONFESSION
I declare that Satan has no authority or place in my life and in my affairs. The Name of the Lord Jesus has all power and authority. Therefore in His Name, I prevail against all adversaries and adversities.
FURTHER STUDY:
1 Peter 5:8-9; 2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Ephesians 6:10-13
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 12:18-44; Numbers 20-21
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 25:1-12; Psalm 61-64
Sounds good to me