Power and Purpose

Scripture: Mark 9:14-16 And when he came to [his] disciples, he saw a great multitude about them, and the scribes questioning with them. And straightway all the people, when they beheld him, were greatly amazed, and running to [him] saluted him. And he asked the scribes, What question ye with them?

Observation: Jesus had just taken Peter, John and James up to the mountain where they witnessed the "transfiguration" of Jesus Christ and heard the voice of the father. When Jesus returned he saw a commotion, and it didn't take him long to figure out who was the cause of it. Jesus, being God, knew that the spirit of the Scribes and Pharisees was at work. He had warned his disciples of this spirit, that it was like yeast, and would multiply and grow quickly. Jesus had left the weaker nine disciples, and left on their own, they did not do well. They were quickly trapped and accused by the scribes. An atmosphere of unbelief had manifested and the nine disciples were not able to perform the miracles they were accustomed to.

Application: Satan always preys on the weaker ones in the flock. We need to be watchful of his traps. As leaders we need to do as Jesus did, warn, teach, ready, and stay close to our team member who might be vulnerable to the attack of the enemy. If Jesus had not intervened, this situation could have been fatal for the nine disciples. Later in this chapter, Jesus identified that prayer and fasting were needed to overcome this type of situation. Through prayer and fasting our spirits become strong and we are able to instantly discern situations just the way that Jesus did. Prayer and Fasting are essential for spiritual leadership. We must always be in the anointing of God to be victorious and accomplish God's purpose on the earth.

Prayer: Dear Father, help us to always stay close to you. Help us to build ourselves up in you through Prayer, Fasting, Worship, and your Word. Help us to always know that you are with us, and let us rely fully on your power and purpose in our lives. In Jesus Name.