“Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the
spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice because your names
are written heaven.” Luke 10:20
Jesus sent out seventy of His followers to spread the gospel. As
they returned, they came with joy, reveling in the fact that the
devils were subject unto them. This was a very natural response and
worthy of note. Imagine what kind of worship service you would have
if you and others in the congregation had been casting out devils
and healing the sick that week. There would probably be great
rejoicing and the people of God would be energized to take the
glorious gospel to the world.
Jesus, while acknowledging the power given to the disciples over
Satan, brought the attention of His followers to that which was most
important. “Your names are written in heaven.” This is the real
cause and reason to rejoice.
The foundation of our rejoicing must not be outcomes based. Our
peace, our victory, and our joy should stem from the fact that
simply, our names are written in heaven. Rejoice because you are
saved, washed in the blood and have been accepted by Jesus Christ.
So, when you haven’t cast out a devil, need your joy be gone? God
forbid.
Be encouraged and renewed in your spirit by the knowledge that your
name is in heaven. What rejoicing and praise ought to flow from our
heart and our mouth when we sing the song “I know my name is there.”
The Lord would have us refocus, as the disciples, and remember where
our true source of rejoicing is found.
