We had heavy hearts for several weeks in the early part of 2017 because there seemed to be an all-out assault against those whom God has chosen to do His work. Many of our dear friends in ministry seemed to be under an attack by hell itself.
We spent one night at the hospital with dear pastor friends who were praying for a granddaughter whose life was in jeopardy. We witnessed that night what it means when a family decides to do battle with hell! While at the hospital, our spiritual daughter and assistant for 14 years, Jamie, found out she needed to return to Alaska immediately to be with her mother, who was in the last stages of battle with cancer. When we arrived home that night, Karen said, “I am so angry at the enemy! We must do war!” For days we had felt the breath of the enemy on our necks, and for days we had been declaring God’s Word and truth in the midst of the storm.
Then, on the morning of Jan. 11, 2017, I awoke with a burden in my heart. Immediately the Lord reminded me of Psalm 61:2 (KJV), “When my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” At that moment I realized afresh that we have the ability and the right to take authority over the lies and attacks of the enemy.
In Matthew 10:1 (MEV) Jesus gave the 12 disciples “authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease.” With God’s promises fresh in my heart I stood in our bedroom and declared, “In the name of Jesus, I command the enemy to leave the anointed alone!”
Understand, dear ones, the enemy is doing everything he can to stop this next great move of God. And beware: if you’re not coming against the enemy in this time of battle, you might just be cooperating with him! God isn’t calling you to live a quiet life. He is calling you to battle. The intense war facing you right now means a great victory is to be found on the other side!
We challenge you right now—today—to build an altar of encounter and take back the authority that Father has given you! Don’t wait another moment.
Jesus said, “Look, I give you authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy. And nothing shall by any means hurt you” (Luke 10:19).
It’s time to anoint your house with oil and walk the perimeter of your yard declaring the ground as holy. It’s time you turn off your phone and turn on worship music. It’s time to dance before the Lord and declare a holy fast! (see Isa. 58). And then take your stand as instructed in Ephesians 6:11: “Put on the full armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.”
Remember, the enemy does not win! Romans 16:20 promises, “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.”
Adapted from Rebuilding the Altar by Pat and Karen Schatzline, copyright 201, published by Charisma House. In this book the authors remind you to encounter Jesus (who became our altar) daily, and bring light and power into our homes, churches and nation. To receive your copy click on this link.
Prayer Power for the Week Beginning Jan. 14, 2018
This week, renew your commitment to God and prayer by focusing anew on His priorities, hearing His Voice and taking a stand against the enemy. Continue to pray that our nation will encounter revival, that God will give wisdom to our leaders, expose evil wherever it lies and bring righteousness into every aspect of life. Remember Israel, the persecuted church and those recovering from last year’s disasters and this year’s bitter weather conditions. Ask the Lord to guide you in setting new goals for this season. Psalm 61:2; Rom 16:20; Isaiah 58; Luke 10:19
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