Crews N Away: Anchored in Grace Blog – Page 147

September 5, 2026

SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD / LUKE 9:27

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 9:27

But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God.

Glimpses of Glory: What It Means to See the Kingdom of God Today

In Luke 9:27, Jesus drops a radical statement that has puzzled readers for centuries: “But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the kingdom of God.”

At first glance, it sounds like Jesus is predicting His final, apocalyptic return within the lifetime of His immediate disciples. But as we dig deeper into the Gospel narrative, we discover a beautiful truth about how God reveals His power—both on the mountain and in our everyday lives.

The Sneak Peek on the Mountain

To understand what Jesus meant, we only need to look at what happens next. Just eight days after making this declaration, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain to pray.

As He prays, the ordinary falls away:

His face changes.
His clothes become a dazzling, glistening white.
Moses and Elijah appear in radiant glory, speaking of what Jesus is about to accomplish in Jerusalem.

This event—the Transfiguration—was a literal fulfillment of Jesus’ promise. Before they tasted death, those three disciples received a stunning, unfiltered preview of Christ’s eternal majesty. They saw the King in His true state. They caught a glimpse of the Kingdom of God.

The Cost and the Comfort

It is no coincidence that this supernatural preview is sandwiched between tough teachings. Right before going up the mountain, Jesus told the crowd that following Him requires denying ourselves and taking up our cross daily.

The Christian life is hard. It involves sacrifice, daily surrender, and sometimes walking through deep valleys. Jesus knew the disciples would soon watch Him undergo a brutal crucifixion. They would need a bedrock memory of His ultimate authority to sustain them through the darkness.

The Transfiguration was given to prove that the cross is not the end of the story. Glory wins.

Seeing the Kingdom Today

While we weren’t standing on that mountain with Peter, James, and John, Jesus’ promise still echoes for us. We don’t have to wait until we die to experience the Kingdom of God.

We see the Kingdom breaking through every time:

An anxious heart finds inexplicable peace in prayer.
Broken relationships experience radical, supernatural forgiveness.
The Church steps up to be the hands and feet of Jesus to a hurting world.

These are our modern “trailers” of the Kingdom—brief, beautiful moments where heaven touches earth and reminds us that Jesus is exactly who He said He is.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the moments of joy, revelation, and glory that You give us. When the world feels heavy and our daily crosses feel too burdensome to carry, give us glimpses of Your glory. Open our spiritual eyes to see Your Kingdom active and moving in our lives right now.

Forgive us for the times we become heavy with the sleep of distraction or discouragement. Shake us with the holy challenge of Your Word and comfort us with Your nearness. Help us to listen to Your beloved Son above all the noise of this world. Build our faith on the mountain so that we can walk faithfully through the valleys. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

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Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 5, 2026

ASHAMED OF ME / LUKE 9:26

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 9:26

For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father’s, and of the holy angels.

Choosing Boldness: What it Truly Means to Be Unashamed of Jesus

In a culture that constantly pressures us to blend in, standing up for your faith can feel incredibly daunting. It is easy to remain silent when conversations shift toward spiritual truths, or to hide your convictions to avoid an awkward look, a lost promotion, or a fractured friendship.

However, in Luke 9:26, Jesus delivers a sobering warning that calls every believer out of the shadows:

“For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when He comes in His glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”

This isn’t just a simple reminder to be bold; it is a critical warning about the eternal cost of keeping our faith hidden away.

What Does It Mean to Be Ashamed of Jesus?

To be ashamed of Jesus goes beyond experiencing a passing moment of social awkwardness. It means experiencing a deep-seated embarrassment or fear regarding our identification with the life, values, and radical goals that Jesus taught.

We see this manifest in our lives when we are:

Ashamed of His Word: Hesitating to claim that everything in the Scriptures is divine truth, or twisting its teachings to align with modern social pressures.
Ashamed to Live It Out: Refusing to take up our cross daily, and instead prioritizing our personal reputation, comfort, or worldly approval over the call of discipleship.
Ashamed to Speak His Name: Remaining intentionally silent in public spaces, workplaces, or social circles when an opportunity arises to defend the gospel or acknowledge Christ.

When we let social conformity dictate our allegiance, we begin to cut ourselves off from the Source of life. Scripture is clear throughout its pages that if we deny Him before men, He will have no choice but to reject us on judgment day (Matthew 10:33; Mark 8:34; Romans 1:16; 2 Timothy 1:8).

The Cure for Spiritual Timidity

The antidote to shame is not self-manufactured confidence; it is a deeper love and awe for who Jesus is. When we truly realize that the creator of the universe endured the ultimate shame of the cross for us, our earthly reputation begins to lose its grip.

Following Jesus requires us to actively trade cultural approval for eternal glory. We must ask ourselves daily: Whose opinion matters more to me—sinful, mortal men, or the Son of Man returning in the fullness of His heavenly glory?

Let’s choose to step out of the shadows. Let’s read our Bibles proudly, speak His truth lovingly, and live lives that clearly demonstrate our allegiance to the King.

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, forgive me for the times I have allowed the fear of man to silence my testimony or dictate my actions. I never want to shrink back or behave as though I am ashamed of You, Your cross, or Your holy Word. Fill me with the Holy Spirit and grant me unshakeable courage and boldness. Help me to proudly declare Your name and live out Your truths in every circle I step into. Let my life be a clear reflection of my allegiance to You, so that on the day You return in Your magnificent glory, I may be found running joyfully to meet You. In Your holy and precious name, Amen.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 5, 2026

WHOEVER LOSES HIS LIFE / LUKE 9:24

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 9:24

For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.

The Divine Paradox: Finding True Life by Letting Go

We live in a culture that constantly tells us to protect, preserve, and promote ourselves at all costs. The standard advice of our world is simple: “Do what’s best for you, pursue your own happiness, and protect your comfort.” Yet, Jesus flips this earthly logic completely upside down with one of the most provocative statements in the entire Bible.

In Luke 9:24, Jesus says:

“For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.”

This statement is so foundational that it is recorded across all four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—making it the single most repeated teaching of Jesus in the New Testament narrative. When God repeats Himself this frequently, He is flashing a neon sign telling us to pause, reflect, and lean in closely.

Moving Beyond the Physical

When we read about “losing our life,” our minds often rush to the concept of physical martyrdom. While early Christians certainly faced that literal cost, for most of us today, the greater challenge is continuing to live faithfully for Him during difficult, mundane, or high-pressure everyday situations.

Losing your life for Christ means surrendering your self-will, your personal agendas, and your demand for constant comfort. It means trading your own plans for God’s perfect design.

The Trap of Self-Preservation

If personal happiness, temporary pleasure, and self-preservation are our main goals in life, we are actually setting ourselves up for a tragic trap. Living purely by our own rules instead of God’s principles ultimately yields disappointment and spiritual emptiness. It is a spiritual law: the tighter we try to grip our lives, the faster they slip through our fingers.

But there is a beautiful promise on the other side of surrender. If we are willing to put aside our own ways, make our relationship with Jesus our top priority, and anchor our choices firmly on His Word, we will find exactly what we’ve been looking for. We don’t just find a duty; we find true life, deep fulfillment, and an anchor of joy—both right now and for all eternity.

Let’s stop trying to save our own lives today. Let’s lose them in Him, trusting that He is a far better author of our story than we could ever be.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the beautiful and challenging truth of Your Word. Forgive me for the times I have clutched my own life so tightly, letting fear, comfort, and selfishness dictate my choices. Clear my clouded vision today so that I can see Your will more clearly.

I want to surrender my plans, my reputation, and my desires into Your hands. Give me the courage to take up my cross daily and live fully for Your Kingdom. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may find true life and lasting joy in Your presence.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 5, 2026

TAKE UP HIS CROSS DAILY / LUKE 9:23

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 9:23

And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

Counting the Cost: What It Truly Means to Take Up Your Cross Daily

We live in a culture that loves comfort. We look for the quickest routes, the easiest options, and the paths of least resistance. But when Jesus calls us into a relationship with Him, He offers a completely different roadmap. He invites us to a life of radical commitment.

In Luke 9:23, Jesus lays out the strict terms of discipleship: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

Accepting Jesus as Savior and Lord means recognizing Him as the Forgiver of our sins and the Leader of our life. This requires more than simply agreeing with the historical truth of His message; it demands a full-hearted commitment to follow Him, no matter the cost.

The Reality of the Cross

Today, we wear crosses as beautiful jewelry or use them as decorative symbols. They seem noble, popular, and comforting. But during the Roman Empire, the cross was a brutal, agonizing tool for public execution.

When Jesus spoke these words, His listeners didn’t think of a shiny gold necklace. They thought of shame, humiliation, and death. Jesus knew exactly what lay ahead for Him. Yet, the profound sacrifice He made on that brutal cross provided us with the ultimate gift: an eternal relationship with God.

Because He carried His cross for us, we are now called to identify with Christ and His sufferings. We must be willing to let our own reputations, comforts, and social standing become entirely wrapped up in our deep devotion to Him.

A Decision We Must Make Every Morning

Following Jesus isn’t a one-time decision we check off a list. Notice the most challenging word Jesus includes in His invitation: daily.

Every single morning, we wake up to a definitive choice:

Living for ourselves: Choosing our own comfort, feeding our selfish desires, and effectively denying Christ.
Living for Christ: Laying down our agenda, surrendering our will, and denying ourselves.

This continual, everyday choice shapes our character and ultimately determines our eternal destiny. Gritting our teeth to suffer isn’t the goal; rather, it’s about trading our temporary, short-sighted desires for the unmatched, lasting joy of His resurrection life.

Are you ready to surrender your plans today? Let’s lay them down at His feet.

Closing Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for sending Jesus to bear the ultimate shame and weight of the cross so that we could be forgiven and brought into an eternal relationship with You. Lord, we confess that it is so easy to chase comfort and live for ourselves. Forgive us for the times we have followed You at a safe distance.

Today, we ask for the strength of the Holy Spirit to pick up our cross. Give us the courage to deny our selfish ambitions, to soften our hearts, and to surrender our reputations for Your sake. Guide our steps today so that everything we do brings glory to Your name. We choose to follow You, no matter the cost.

In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 5, 2026

WARNED THEM NOT TO TELL / LUKE 9:21

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 9:21

And he straitly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man that thing;

Trusting the Divine Timeline: Why Jesus Said “Tell No One”

We live in a culture obsessed with instant recognition. When something incredible happens, our first instinct is to broadcast it to the world, chase the algorithms, and build a platform.

But in Luke 9:21, we witness a moment that completely contradicts our modern impulse for publicity.

Moments earlier, Jesus asked His disciples, “But who do you say that I am?”

Peter answered with profound, historic accuracy: “The Christ of God”. It was a breakthrough moment of faith. Yet, immediately following this grand confession, we read this surprising directive:

“And He strictly warned and commanded them to tell this to no one…” — Luke 9:21

Why would Jesus want to keep the greatest news in human history a secret? Why did He command silence?

When we look closer at the Gospels, we find that Jesus’s “Messianic Secret” was not about hiding the truth forever, but about protecting it until the perfect time. There are three powerful reasons behind His warning that can transform how we walk with God today.

1. Reshaping Misguided Expectations

During the first century, the Jewish people were suffering under the heavy, oppressive boot of the Roman Empire. When they thought of the “Messiah” (the Christ), they weren’t picturing a suffering servant who would die for sin. They were anticipating a triumphant military general—a political liberator who would overthrow Rome and restore an earthly kingdom.

If the disciples had run out preaching that Jesus was the Christ at that exact moment, it would have ignited a political firestorm. Jesus refused to let political agendas or popular expectations redefine His true mission. He came to conquer sin and death, not just temporary political enemies.

2. The Crown Demanded the Cross

Directly after commanding their silence, Jesus gave the reason why: “The Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected… and be killed, and be raised the third day” (Luke 9:22).

The disciples understood the title “Messiah,” but they didn’t yet understand the work of the Messiah. His identity could not be accurately or fully proclaimed apart from the cross. If they preached a Messiah without the crucifixion, they would be preaching an incomplete gospel. They needed to witness the sacrifice before they could properly proclaim the victory.

3. Guarding the Divine Timetable

Jesus operated on a strict, heavenly calendar. He frequently spoke of His “hour”. Prematurely stirring up the crowds or aggravating the religious authorities could have led to an early arrest, disrupting the vital teaching, healing, and preparation He needed to complete with His disciples. Jesus would not be rushed by human enthusiasm or deterred by human misunderstanding. He trusted the Father’s perfect timing.

What This Means for Us Today

We often find ourselves in “silent seasons.” We have dreams, callings, or promises we feel God has placed on our hearts, yet the door remains closed. We want to shout it out, make things happen, and force our way into the spotlight.

Luke 9:21 reminds us that God is a God of process, sequence, and timing.

Sometimes, He tells us to “tell no one” or wait in quietness because He is still shaping our character to match our calling. He is making sure our expectations line up with His will, rather than our own earthly desires.

If you are in a season of waiting, obscurity, or preparation, do not lose heart. Trust that the One who managed the timeline of salvation is perfectly managing the timeline of your life. The cross had its appointed hour, the resurrection had its third day, and your current season has its divine purpose.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We bow before You today, acknowledging that Your thoughts are higher than our thoughts, and Your ways are higher than our ways. Forgive us for the times we try to rush Your hand, force open doors, or demand instant results. We thank You for the reminder in Luke 9:21 that You act with perfect intention and divine timing.

Give us the grace to surrender our expectations to You. Help us to embrace the quiet seasons of preparation, knowing that You are doing a deeper work within us. When we want the crown without the cross, remind us of the sacrificial love of Jesus. Teach us to rest in Your sovereignty, trusting that You make all things beautiful in their proper time.

In the holy and precious name of Jesus, we pray, Amen.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 5, 2026

FEEDING OF THE FIVE THOUSAND / LUKE 9:12-17

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 9:12-17

Partnering in the Supernatural: Lessons from the Feeding of the 5,000

We often view the miracles of Jesus as grand solo performances. We picture Him speaking a word, waving His hand, and altering reality while His followers watch from the sidelines in silent awe. But when we look closely at Luke 9:12-17, we see a completely different blueprint for supernatural breakthrough.

Jesus rarely acts alone. He chooses to involve His followers in His miracles and supernatural actions.

The Call to Unexpected Partnership

The scene starts with a very human problem. A massive crowd of about 5,000 men (plus women and children) is stranded in a desolate place as the day begins to wear away. The disciples offer a practical, logical solution: “Send the crowd away… to find lodging and get provisions.”

Instead of agreeing, Jesus flips the script with a startling command:

“You give them something to eat.” — Luke 9:13

Can you imagine the disciples’ confusion? They only had five loaves of bread and two fish. From a human standpoint, their resources were laughably insufficient. But Jesus wasn’t mocking their lack; He was inviting their participation.

The Pattern of Divine Multiplication

When we look at the mechanics of this miracle, Jesus establishes a profound pattern of collaboration:

We provide the seed: The disciples had to surrender what little they had into His hands.
Jesus provides the power: He looks up to heaven, blesses the food, and breaks it.
We distribute the breakthrough: Jesus did not personally walk around to thousands of people handing out bread. He broke the loaves and “gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd.”

This echoes Matthew 14:19, where Jesus commands the crowds to sit down, blesses the provisions, and “gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds.”

The miracle actually multiplied as it left the disciples’ hands. They had to step out in faith, reaching into an empty basket, trusted that there would be enough for the next group of fifty.

Why Does Jesus Involve Us?

Jesus doesn’t need our help to feed a multitude, heal the sick, or move mountains. He is entirely self-sufficient. Yet, He deliberately structures His kingdom so that we are His hands and feet.

He involves us because He cares about our transformation just as much as He cares about meeting the crowd’s needs. By making the disciples the distributors of the miracle, they didn’t just witness His power—they tasted the joy of partnering with the Living God. They went from passive spectators to active participants in the supernatural.

And the beautiful economy of God ensures that when we give our small offering, we are never left empty-handed. After everyone ate and was satisfied, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of broken pieces left over—one full basket for every single disciple who doubted.

Closing Prayer

Father, we stand in awe of Your boundless generosity and power. Forgive us for the times we look at our small resources—our limited time, our meager talents, or our small finances—and assume You cannot use them. We confess that we often want to send the problems away rather than trust You to move.

Thank You for the beautiful truth that You choose to partner with us. Today, we place our “five loaves and two fish” into Your hands. Bless them, multiply them, and use us as instruments of Your supernatural grace to feed a spiritually and physically hungry world. Give us the courage to step out in faith and distribute Your love to those around us. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 5, 2026

HEROD THE TETRARCH / LUKE 9:7

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 9:7

Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him: and he was perplexed, because that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead;

The Perplexed King: What Herod the Tetrarch Teaches Us About Superficial Faith

In the Gospel of Luke, we encounter a brief but deeply telling interlude regarding the ruler of Galilee. Luke 9:7 states: “Now Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead.”

Herod Antipas sat in a position of immense earthly authority, yet a wandering preacher from Nazareth completely unsettled his peace. The word “perplexed” in this passage carries the weight of being thoroughly at a loss, deeply disturbed, and mentally cornered. Rumors were swirling. Some claimed Jesus was Elijah, others said an ancient prophet had arisen, and many whispered that He was John the Baptist—the very man Herod had wrongfully beheaded—brought back to life.

Herod’s agitation reveals a profound truth about the human condition: a guilty conscience cannot be silenced by political power. The memory of his sin haunted him, and the sudden outbreak of miracles across his territory forced him to confront a reality larger than his throne. He asked, “John I beheaded, but who is this about whom I hear such things?” Luke concludes the account by noting that Herod kept trying to see Jesus.

This desire to see Jesus might look like the beginning of faith, but history shows us it was merely a morbid, superstitious curiosity. Herod wanted to see Jesus the way someone wants to see a spectacle or a magician. He desired the thrill of the miraculous without the conviction of the message. When Herod finally did face Jesus during the trials before the crucifixion, he only wanted Jesus to perform a sign for his amusement. When Jesus remained silent, Herod mocked Him and sent Him away.

Herod represents a dangerous spiritual trap: being intrigued by Jesus but completely unwilling to be transformed by Him. It is entirely possible to read scripture, study theology, and be fascinated by the historical figure of Christ, all while keeping Him at a safe distance. True encounters with Jesus do not leave us as comfortable spectators; they demand that we lay down our crowns, confront our past, and surrender our lives.

The question Herod asked is the same one we must answer today: “Who is this?” May we never settle for a superficial curiosity that seeks signs but refuses sacrifice. Instead, let us seek Jesus with a heart ready to repent, listen, and follow wherever He leads.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You acknowledging that You are the King of kings and Lord of lords. Forgive us for the times we have treated Your Son, Jesus Christ, with mere curiosity rather than total reverence. Search our hearts today and expose any areas where we are hiding behind our own pride, comfort, or past mistakes. Grant us a clear conscience and a spirit of true repentance. Do not let us be content with simply knowing about Jesus; give us the grace and courage to truly know Him and follow Him wholeheartedly. We lay down our desires for control and step into the light of Your truth. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 5, 2026

PREACH THE KINGDOM … HEAL THE SICK / LUKE 9:2

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 9:2

And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick.

Chasing the Pattern: What Happens When We Preach the Kingdom and Heal the Sick?

In the rhythms of modern church life, it is incredibly easy to fall into the trap of comparison. We look at the church down the road, track attendance numbers, or measure our success by the production value of our Sunday mornings. But if we want to know if we are truly hitting the mark, we have to look past modern trends and anchor ourselves back to the original blueprint.

In Luke 9:2, we find the core of that blueprint: “And he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.”

This moment marked a massive shift in Jesus’ ministry. For the first time, He sent out His core group of twelve disciples to represent Him in both word and deed. They weren’t operating on their own strength, talent, or intellect; Jesus passed His own spiritual authority and power to them for the mission.

A Two-Fold Mission: Word and Power

Jesus’ instructions were crystal clear. The gospel was never meant to be a philosophy that stays trapped in our heads, nor was it meant to be a social program devoid of spiritual authority. It has always been a beautiful partnership of message and action:

Preaching the Kingdom: Announcing God’s ultimate power, authority, purposes, and way of life on earth and into eternity.
Healing the Sick: Breaking the control of illness and evil over people’s bodies and lives.

Whenever Jesus commanded His followers to preach the kingdom, a command to heal the sick and drive out darkness almost always followed. From the sending of the Twelve to the commissioning of the Seventy, and ultimately to the Great Commission that extends to all nations today, the pattern remains unchanged. God still wants His message to be accompanied by a tangible display of the Holy Spirit’s power.

The New Testament Yardstick

This leaves us with a challenging, heart-searching question for our local church communities.

Are we measuring ourselves by the New Testament pattern?

Are we seeing and experiencing the full power of God’s kingdom as Jesus’ first followers did? Are we bringing the kingdom of God near—making Christ’s truth and power undeniable to the broken world around us?

If we look around our communities and notice a lack of supernatural transformation, we have to gently but directly ask ourselves: If not, why not? In these challenging days, a weak or purely intellectual message will not defeat the heavy challenges of darkness in our world. We need the full authority of Christ. We need to preach the kingdom, and we need to expect His healing power to back it up.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, forgive us for the times we have reduced Your revolutionary Kingdom to mere words and traditions. We want to live according to the true pattern of the New Testament. Jesus, we ask that You fill us afresh with Your Holy Spirit and grant us the boldness to proclaim Your Kingdom to a broken world. We pray for Your authority to flow through our lives—that the sick would be healed, the oppressed set free, and the reality of Your love made undeniable to those around us. Let Your Kingdom come and Your will be done in our church and community. Amen.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 5, 2026

AUTHORITY TO DRIVE OUT ALL DEMONS / LUKE 9:1

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 9:1

Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.

Walking in Your God-Given Domain: Understanding Your Authority Over the Enemy

Have you ever felt completely overwhelmed by the spiritual atmosphere around you? Whether it is a heavy cloud of anxiety, a sudden wave of fear, or persistent spiritual warfare targeting your mind and home, it is easy to feel small.

But as believers, we often forget that we are not defenseless victims trying to survive the enemy’s attacks. We are ambassadors of the Living God, backed by the full backing of His Kingdom.

In Luke 9:1, we see a dramatic shift in how God’s people interact with the demonic realm:

“When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases.”

This wasn’t just a temporary boost for a select few. It serves as a foundational blueprint for the spiritual heritage available to everyone who steps out in the name of Jesus.

Power vs. Authority: What Is the Difference?

To fully grasp what Jesus handed to His followers, we have to look at the two distinct Greek words used in this passage: Power (dunamis) and Authority (exousia).

While they sound similar, they have very different legal and spiritual definitions:

Concept	Greek Word	Definition	Spiritual Application
Power	Dunamis	Dynamic, supernatural ability; inherent strength or might.	The raw capability of the Holy Spirit working through you to shatter strongholds.
Authority	Exousia	The legal right to govern; delegated power or jurisdiction.	The legal right to use the Name of Jesus to enforce the enemy’s defeat.

Think of a traffic officer. Naturally, the officer does not have the physical strength (power) to stop a massive, speeding semi-truck. However, when they step into the intersection and raise their hand, the truck stops. Why? Because the officer possesses the authority delegated by the government.

When you confront demonic oppression, fear, or sickness, you aren’t fighting in your own natural strength. You are standing in the intersection of spiritual warfare, backed by the ultimate authority of Jesus Christ.

Breaking Down “ALL” Demons

Notice that Luke doesn’t say Jesus gave them authority over some minor demons, or only the weak ones. The text explicitly states He gave them authority over all demons.

No Exception Clauses: There is no demonic strategy, ancestral stronghold, or spirit of oppression that falls outside the boundaries of Christ’s authority.
Already Defeated: Colossians 2:15 reminds us that Jesus disarmed the rulers and authorities, putting them to open shame by triumphing over them on the cross.
Enforcing the Victory: Our job in spiritual warfare is not to win a new battle, but to enforce the victory that Jesus has already established.

If the enemy is whispering lies to you today, telling you that your situation is hopeless or that your family will never break free from generational bondage, remind yourself of the word ALL. The enemy is already legally evicted; he is just hoping you don’t know your rights.

How to Activate Your Authority

Authority left unused changes nothing. A badge kept in a pocket doesn’t enforce the law. Here is how you can practically walk in your God-given jurisdiction every day:

Submit Fully to God: James 4:7 lays out the sequence: “Submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Your authority over the enemy is directly tied to your submission to Jesus.
Speak with Boldness: Jesus didn’t bargain with demons, and neither should we. We command evil spirits, fear, and confusion to leave in the specific, powerful Name of Jesus.
Stay Anchored in Intimacy: True spiritual authority flows from relationship, not a formula. Spend time in His presence, read His Word, and let your confidence stem from knowing exactly whose you are.

Closing Prayer

Father, in the mighty Name of Jesus, I thank You for the incredible inheritance and authority You have given to me as a believer. Forgive me for the times I have lived in fear, forgetting the power that lives on the inside of me through the Holy Spirit.

Today, I take my stand based on the truth of Luke 9:1. I declare that Jesus has given me power and authority over all the works of the enemy. I command every spirit of fear, anxiety, depression, and confusion to leave my mind, my home, and my family right now in Jesus’ name.

Thank You, Lord, that the enemy is a defeated foe. Teach me to walk daily in Your absolute truth, to open my mouth in faith, and to watch every stronghold crumble before Your majesty. I cover my life with the blood of Jesus and rest securely in Your victory. Amen.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
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Blessings, Margarita & Stace

September 5, 2026

DON’T BE AFRAID JUST BELIEVE / LUKE 8:50

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Luke 8:50

But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.

Don’t Be Afraid, Just Believe: Finding Peace in the Midst of Panic

We have all been there—that exact moment when your heart drops, your stomach twists into knots, and a wave of panic completely takes over. Maybe it’s a sudden medical report, a looming financial crisis, an unexpected breakdown in a relationship, or just the heavy, crushing weight of the unknown. Fear is one of the loudest voices we will ever encounter, and it loves to tell us that it’s over.

But Luke 8:50 offers a powerful antidote to our panic. In this verse, Jesus speaks directly into the deepest valley of despair with a timeless command: “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”

The Anatomy of an Interruption

To truly understand the weight of these words, we have to look at the context of Luke 8. A desperate father named Jairus, a prominent synagogue leader, had fallen at the feet of Jesus, begging Him to heal his dying twelve-year-old daughter. Jesus agreed to go, but on the way, the ultimate distraction occurred. A woman who had been suffering from a bleeding condition for twelve years pushed through the pressing crowd, touched the hem of Jesus’ robe, and was instantly healed.

Jesus stopped. He engaged with the woman. He celebrated her faith.

Meanwhile, Jairus was likely watching the minutes tick away, fighting an overwhelming surge of anxiety. What about my daughter? Why are we stopping? We are running out of time.

Then, the worst-case scenario happened. Messengers from Jairus’ house arrived with a devastating blow: “Your daughter is dead. Don’t trouble the Teacher any longer.”

Choosing Jesus Over the Noise

In the natural realm, the report was absolute. Death is final. The situation shifted from an urgent emergency to an unchangeable tragedy. This is exactly where our own fear thrives—when the circumstances say, “It’s too late. There is nothing left to do.”

But look at how Jesus reacted. Before Jairus could spiral into a complete breakdown, Jesus intercepted the bad news. Luke 8:50 tells us:

Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.”

Jesus didn’t ignore the situation, but He completely rewrote the outcome. He gave Jairus a choice:

Agree with the noise, the wailing mourners, and the finality of death.
Or block out the panic and fix his eyes on the Source of Life.

Jairus chose to believe. And because he held onto faith even when the situation looked completely dead, Jesus walked into that home, took the little girl by the hand, and commanded her to rise. Her spirit returned, and she stood up immediately.

Carrying This Truth Into Your Today

What is the “bad report” trying to dictate your peace today? What situation is fear telling you is too far gone to ever fix?

Faith does not mean pretending that the storm isn’t real. Faith means knowing that the One standing in the boat with you has total authority over the wind and the waves. When fear tells you to panic, Jesus gently commands you to pivot your focus back to Him. He is still the God of breakthroughs, restorations, and miracles. If He can conquer death itself, He can handle whatever you are facing right now.

A Closing Prayer for Faith Over Fear

Heavenly Father, Lord Almighty,

We come before You today acknowledging that the world can be loud, scary, and incredibly uncertain. Forgive us for the times we have allowed the bad reports, the heavy circumstances, and the spirit of panic to drown out Your voice.

Right now, we bring to You the specific situations that are causing anxiety in our hearts. We quiet the noise around us and choose to listen to Your truth instead. Lord, inject Your supernatural peace into our panic.

When fear tells us it’s too late, remind us that You are the Resurrection and the Life. Help us to drop our dread and pick up our shields of faith. Give us the grace and the strength to silence our fears, hold firm to Your promises, and simply trust that You are working behind the scenes.

We choose to stop being afraid. We choose to just believe.

In the mighty and powerful name of Jesus, we pray, Amen.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace