Scripture Reading

Luke 10:19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Insight on the Word

The Greek word for power in this verse is “exousia,” and it literally means: delegated authority. God has given believers the right to use power as received and when needed to destroy Satan’s works. “To tread on” means to have absolute mastery over; as is clear in Psalm 91:13; 108:13. The “serpents and scorpions” and “all the power of the enemy” refer to demon powers primarily, although immunity from any harm of wild beasts and from poisons is also promised (Psalm 91; Mark 16:17-18; Acts 28:5). In this world we are not to fear the Devil, to the contrary Christians have power “over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”

This passage does not go so far as to say Christians don’t die or that we will never face opposition in this world (John 16:33); for when we compare this passage with Matthew 10:16-22 and the actual history of the apostles, we know that this exemption from being hurt does not imply freedom from all physical or material injury, for many have died for Christ. The Lord is simply giving the believer His power. This power is far greater than the power of the Devil. And with this power we can stand against and overcome all the power of the enemy (Ephesians 6:10-18; 1 John 4:4).

Think about it. Today we can go out into the world without fear (2 Timothy 1:7). No matter the snares or wicked plans the Devil has devised for us, they will not succeed (Isaiah 54:17). Not in our own strength will we face and overcome the Devil, but through the power of the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, for He has given us “power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy” and nothing will hurt us!

Speak the Word — I have power over Satan and nothing shall hurt me! (Luke 10:19)

Daily Bible Reading — Exodus 1- 4