“Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.”
Luke 10:20
Discussion
The disciples of Jesus had just returned from their mission. Sent by Jesus, they went into the neighbouring towns and villages preaching the gospel of the kingdom. When they returned, they were so excited to report how they casted out devils in the name of Jesus. But Jesus interrupted them with this statement; Luke.10.20; "Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven." They rejoiced in what they had done, but Jesus corrects them and teaches them to rejoice in what God had done. Much more than being able to cast out devils is the joy of having your name in Heaven. The joy of being made a son of God should always exceed the joy of accomplishing great things in the kingdom of God.
There are many who measure their self-worth by the things they accomplish or their material possessions. Others pride themselves in their academic achievements. Even in Gods kingdom, there are those who measure their self-worth by the size of the congregation they pastor or the number of miracles happening through them.
None of these things accurately depicts your true worth but the work done by God through Jesus in bringing you to Himself. Thus, you have been made the son of God in Christ Jesus. This is your true self-worth and the source of all your joys.
Never boast about what you do for God but about what God has done for you. Yes, your authority over devils is something to shout about, but God's love and presence with you is something to shout louder about. Luke.10.20; "All the same, the great triumph is not in your authority over evil, but in God's authority over you and presence with you. Not what you do for God but what God does for you--that's the agenda for rejoicing. “MSG. If you would think like this, the devil will never have the grounds to make you feel depressed, disappointed or defeated. No matter what comes your way, whether your expectations were met or not, your joy remains intact, because your name is already written in heaven and ain't nothing that devil can do about it.
Shalom Uvracha!
Meditation
Luke.10.20 — All the same, the great triumph is not in your authority over evil, but in God's authority over you and presence with you. Not what you do for God but what God does for you--that's the agenda for rejoicing. “MSG