"But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.” Luke 22:53 ESV
I have never been comfortable with the verbal rebuking of satan which is taught in many churches and Christian programs. I would rather call on the power of my Heavenly Father. However, many people verbally rebuke satan during times of intense temptation or oppression, and use scripture to justify/support this plan of attack on the dark forces.
Today's verse from Luke is powerful, almost chilling. Jesus is talking to the Roman soldiers as they descend on the Garden of Gethsemane to arrest him. The forces of darkness were and still are very real in this world. Whether demonstrated in ISIS or Dylan Root, one cannot argue that evil is alive and thriving. How else can one explain beheadings in the name of religion or mass murders in hopes of starting a race war?
On the night of his arrest, Christ told the Roman soldiers that the hour belonged to them and the power of darkness. Perhaps He is saying that to the world during this point in history. Do Christians truly believe in present day, here-and-now evil? Or do we blame parents, Imams, and drugs? It is imperative that today's Church believe in and acknowledge satan as a real entity. We must respect his power and know his only mission is to destroy and kill. His hatred for Jesus Christ is so deep, so all-consuming he will do everything he is allowed to do to injure, maim, and kill the pinnacle of God's creation- man.
Whether you choose to verbally rebuke demons when tempted or silently call on the power of Yahwew, be vigilant in watching for and always prepared for very real, very powerful attacks. For "this is (his) hour, and the power of darkness." Be armed with scripture and prayer. Nothing will be allowed to penetrate God's hedge of protection around you that He has not given you the power to overcome and preordained for good.
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