Fallen!

Jesus sent His disciples on an outreach mission. As they carried out their work, Jesus followed them in spirit, observing each moment of their victorious battles with unseen forces.

When they returned, their hearts were lightened with joy and amazement. They eagerly shared their experience with Jesus, recounting how even the devils had been subjected to them through the power of His name.

Then Jesus said, “Hold on, I also have something to share.” As they all sat in quiet anticipation, He broke the silence with awe-inspiring words: “I beheld Satan fall like lightning from heaven.” And in my mind’s eyes, I imagine one of them exclaimed, “Lord, did You? Wow!” 

The story of Elymas, the sorcerer, echoes this same truth. He had trusted in his dark powers and even seduced others into placing their trust in them.

But when judgment came upon him, it arrived swiftly and decisively. His evil power failed him; it could not save or rescue him from the justice that fell upon him.

Where was Satan to help him? Where were his magical abilities to defend him? They had all vanished, exposing the futility of trusting a defeated foe. Satan cannot save or aid those he deceives.

Jesus disarmed principalities and powers; He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it (Colossians 2:15), and then said, “trample them under your foot and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” (Luke 10:19). Hallelujah!

Yet some of God’s children remain unaware of the victory they hold. Many allow the devil to roam freely in their lives, unchallenged, fearing that confrontation might provoke retaliation.

But can I tell you something? Satan never leaves anyone alone. Even when you do nothing, he still seeks to attack. It is in his nature to go about seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8).

But glory to God, we have the power to resist him steadfast in faith, and he will flee as in terror (James 4:7). Hallelujah!

Reflection Question: Are there areas in your life where you’ve allowed the enemy to operate unchallenged out of fear?