Navigating obstacles and overcoming trials is part of the authority we’ve been given through Christ. In Luke 10:19 (NLT), Jesus speaks to his disciples, empowering them to go out and preach the Gospel: “Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them. Nothing will injure you.” Here, our Savior reassures his disciples of the power he’s granted them. That same authority rests upon us today, and his desire is that we walk in it daily, trusting in his strength and protection.
The Authority We Hold
Jesus, in this verse, is laying down some serious truth. He’s not just talking about physical dangers; He’s addressing the spiritual battles we face every day. Can you take a moment to soak in that truth? Nothing will injure you. It doesn’t mean that we won’t face challenges or that life will be a smooth ride. What it does mean is that we have a shield—the power and authority of Jesus Christ that protects us from the enemy’s attacks. Isaiah 54:17 (NLT) tells us: “But in that coming day no weapon turned against you will succeed. You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you.” This doesn’t mean the weapon won’t be formed—the enemy will try it—but when our faith is firmly planted in God, we are protected.
When Jesus sent out the seventy-two disciples, he equipped them with authority. They returned, buzzing with excitement and overflowing with joy, recounting powerful stories of healing and transformation. They felt powerful, and rightfully so! They had witnessed firsthand the authority and undeniable strength of Christ working through them. And here’s the awesome truth: that same authority is available to us today.
Facing Life’s Problems
Think about the snakes and scorpions. These represent the dangers in our lives—those situations that seem ready to strike. They can take the form of toxic relationships, financial struggles, or even our own doubts and fears. Yet, with Jesus’s words resounding in our hearts, we can face them head-on, with the confidence that he always has our backs.
The Apostle Paul said in 2 Timothy 3:1-5 (NLT), “You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!”
We live in a dark and dangerous world, where people are desperately wicked. You might feel anxious, especially when you consider dating. Many have mastered the art of concealing their dangerous or dysfunctional sides, showing only what seems appealing. This can be a trap, but it’s important to remember that God’s protective shield is around you. The authority and power of Christ equip us to navigate the treacherous paths of life without fear. We can move forward with confidence, knowing we are covered by His protection.
Our Faith in Him
But let’s not kid ourselves; holding onto that authority requires faith. It’s one thing to know we have power; it’s another to walk in it. Our responsibility as believers is to lean upon God’s protection and trust it. The more we lean into Jesus and rely on his strength, the more we realize that his authority flows through us. It’s not our power; it’s his.
We must invite our precious and powerful Savior into every area of our lives. What does this look like? It means surrendering our fears, desires, and decisions to him. It looks like seeking him in prayer before making choices, allowing God’s Word to guide our steps, and trusting that the Lord is with us even in uncertainty. When we live this way, our faith in his protection deepens, and we begin to see his hand in every part of our lives.
There will be moments when doubt creeps in. Maybe you’ll question whether you can truly overcome the struggles in front of you. When those thoughts arise, remember Romans 8:31 (NLT): “What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?” That’s a powerful reminder that we are not alone in our battles or any situation of life.
Life is unpredictable, and the world can feel overwhelming at times. But we have a promise that stands firm: “Nothing will injure you.” Let that truth settle in your heart today. Stand tall, walk boldly, and remember that with Jesus, you’re equipped to face anything that comes your way. So, embrace your authority in the Lord Jesus Christ, and live in the freedom, power, and grace that comes with it. ■
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“Nothing Will Injure You”, overcomingdomesticviolence.org©2025. All rights reserved. All done to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord!
