Devo Week 15 - Discerning the Unseen Realm
“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” Matt.10:16
Melchizedek, A Gentile Priest of God Most High - The “Just Thereness” of God in the Old Testament
If entering a new year or realm feels daunting, take heart! God has already gone before you. There is no better foundation for going somewhere new than this truth: God is behind you, God is before you. Just as Abram was met by the high priest Melechizedek in the Promised Land, so Jesus awaits you in yours. But, expect opposition, as you move forward into the new, engaging people and territories that are rightfully the Lord’s.
WHO IS FOR US
One key role that Jesus fulfilled for the Old Testament is the role of the high priest. (Heb. 2:14-18, 4:14-16) He now sits forever as a priest in the order of Melechizedek for both Jews and Gentiles. (Heb. 7:20-28; Rom. 14:17) This means He intercedes and rules with righteousness and peace, having fulfilled all human effort as the perfect and complete sacrifice for all sin — past, present and future. Jesus’ righteousness and peace are now ours. As the New Testament high priest for all nations, the sacrifice of Jesus not just covers all sin but cleanses it. (Heb. 10:19-22) Through Him, we have authority over all the power of the enemy and his kingdom. (Matt. 28:18) As we step into the new, Jesus meets us there with all the promises of God which are “Yes and Amen.” (2 Cor. 1:20)
WHO IS AGAINST US
We do not have to go looking for demons. They will find us, if we are following Jesus and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Don’t be surprised by disturbances in the spiritual realm. Disturbances in our circumstances can be a sign of spiritual activity. Even the demons began to cry out as they recognized the presence of Jesus. (Mark 1:24) Demonic strongholds will likely reside in both families and systems. These familiar and religious spirits rule within family (relational and cultural) and religious systems (rituals). In the Lord’s timing, the presence of Christ in us can displace all unclean spirits by the power and authority of the Holy Spirit.
PRAYER FOR SPIRITUAL BREAKTHROUGH
Lord, we thank you for becoming the high priest for all nations! All authority in heaven and earth has been given to You. As You lead us into new realms, help us to continually keep in step with Your Holy Spirit and to trust You to dislodge all the authority and power of the evil one residing there. Thank you that You’ve gone before us! Lord, let Your glory fill every family, system, people and nation, in Jesus’ name, Amen.