He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. – Colossians 2:15
It couldn’t have been a greater time of dejection, disappointment, depression, disillusionment, or despair. Had the enemy won? The suffering had been excruciating, humiliating, a sign of rejection, indignant scorn and contempt. Finally, the cross – crucifixion was the epitome of shame. It seemed that Satan and all his minions gathered at the feet of Christ in glee; the executioner had accomplished his goal.
But God, the dying Redeemer, whose heel was only bruised, disarmed him mightily by crushing his head – delivering a mortal blow (Genesis 3:15). The eyes of faith reveal the resurrected Jesus as the conqueror. The cross bears shame for those who put Him there, but it has become a fount where mercy springs eternal for those who believe in His saving death and resurrection. See the power of Christ who stood in battle and won; He won it alone and He won it for you. As Charles Spurgeon once said, “[Satan] may tempt but he cannot compel; he may threaten but he cannot subdue.” He no longer has power. It is Christ who has the power and will give you strength to meet your every need and combat every enemy.
What will you encounter today that will distress or alarm you, challenge you, or cause you worry or pain? Spend time in Scripture and prayer. Enter your day knowing that God is in control. The Holy Spirit will bring to mind His Word to guide you through your tough times. Then intercede for others, including elected officials, that they would know the triumphal Savior and open their hearts to the truth of His Word and the strength of His power.
Today’s Verse: Colossians 2:15
He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Jeremiah 51:12, 15-19
12 Set up a standard against the walls of Babylon;
make the watch strong;
set up watchmen;
prepare the ambushes;
for the Lord has both planned and done
what he spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon.
15 It is he who made the earth by his power,
who established the world by his wisdom,
and by his understanding stretched out the heavens.
16 When he utters his voice there is a tumult of waters in the heavens,
and he makes the mist rise from the ends of the earth.
He makes lightning for the rain,
and he brings forth the wind from his storehouses.
17 Every man is stupid and without knowledge;
every goldsmith is put to shame by his idols,
for his images are false,
and there is no breath in them.
18 They are worthless, a work of delusion;
at the time of their punishment they shall perish.
19 Not like these is he who is the portion of Jacob,
for he is the one who formed all things,
and Israel is the tribe of his inheritance;
the Lord of hosts is his name.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
