Year of the Bible: Part Twelve of TwelveShembull

Why Jesus Came Have you ever worried that you might still be under the enemy's power even though you have given your life to Jesus? For millennia, the devil has been attempting to hurt God's heart by warring against the object of God's affection: human beings. However, we uncover a startling truth in today's reading. Jesus didn't come only to save us, set us free, and take our place by receiving the punishment we deserved. He came to "destroy the works of the devil!" Here's the encouraging part: the Greek word used here for "destroy" can also be translated as "dissolve," "undo," or "unbind," and the Greek word translated as "work" can also mean "business" or "employment." That means that one of the reasons Jesus came was to undo and dissolve Satan's life work, unbinding you from his work. As a spirit-filled follower of Jesus, you are free from the enemy's influence and empowered to live the new life that Jesus has provided for you. Why would you ever want to submit to that old sin-filled lifestyle when you have been given a totally new life to live with Jesus? Question: Do you realize that when you live free, walking in the empowering Holy Spirit and authority of Christ, others will notice and be encouraged to do the same? Don't forget: your example has so much power! Prayer: Ask the Holy Spirit for encouragement to step into your identity in Christ and for the boldness to live your faith out loud for His glory and honor!