October 17

Spiritual Warfare

Power over the enemy

“ ‘Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.’ He replied, ‘I saw Satan
fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes
and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm
you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your
names are written in heaven.’ ” Luke 10:17–20 (NIV)

Roger works with university students in the Democratic Republic of
the Congo. He came to know Christ a few years ago, but his family still
practices traditional African religions, consults witch doctors and worships
their ancestors. When his sister came to live in Kinshasa, Roger
prayed that she would become a Christian.

Soon after arriving in the capital city, Roger’s sister became very ill
with tuberculosis. Roger grabbed some students from his Bible study
and rushed to the hospital to pray. His sister was barely conscious as the
group prayed for her.

Suddenly, the sick woman started screaming at the top of her lungs.
The voice that came out was not her own, but the voice of a demonic
spirit. The voice screamed in agony anytime the group prayed.
Roger addressed the spirit, “In the name of Jesus Christ, come out.”
The sister fell into a deep sleep as the group prayed over her.
When the sister woke up, Roger shared about the sacrifice Jesus
Christ made for her, and she asked Jesus into her life. Even though she
died three days later, Roger rejoiced that she would be in heaven.
The Bible came to life right before the students’ eyes. “I understand
the Bible even more than before. This experience was just like when
Jesus cast out spirits,” Roger said. “That day, Acts came alive for me and
my students. When you see God work like this, you can’t keep quiet.”

—Debbie, Central, Eastern and Southern Africa

Holy Father, there is no One like You. You are King of kings and Lord of lords!
Thank You for the authority I have over Satan in the name of Jesus. As Luther’s
hymn shouts, “One little word will fell him!” In Jesus’ name, amen.

Next day