However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. (Luke 10:20)


IN HIS OFFICE, he has power. George reigns from his desk. With just a phone call he may order his employees one way or another. They listen and submit to him. He approves budgets, negotiates business deals, and hires or fires employees at his discretion. George is the CEO of his company and it runs smoothly under his control.

At home, George has no power. He has two teenage boys. Their onetime love and affection toward their father has turned into apathy. His sons hardly acknowledge he is alive. He pleads for them to come home on time, implores them to clean their rooms, and begs them to eat supper with him. George is a father who feels he has lost control.

Jesus told His disciples He had given them power over evil, but it was not the power that was most important. Jesus said, “However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven” (Luke 10:20). Jesus was informing His disciples that a right relationship with God is more important than authority. So much authority in this world is focused on transaction. Spiritual authority is not based on what you can give or take away from people; it is based on a right relationship with Christ.

Put your relationship with Christ before the benefits you receive in Him.

Amy Knepp is a graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University and is a stay-at-home mother of four children.