He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
Luke 10:18-20, NIV
Rejoice that your names are written in heaven. It is a comforting thought, especially when you are out at the coal face, battling the forces of the Enemy. “When this is all over, and I arrive in heaven, they will find my name in the register…” The ultimate security.
And of course that is true – the Father’s house has many mansions / dwellings / apartments, and you are expected. But I doubt that is what Jesus is focused on here. And it is about focus.
“I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.” The one you are up against knows heaven and lost it all. (And remember, he would like you to suffer the same fate.)
“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” I have instructed you and commissioned you to do what you have been doing, and you can’t be stopped.
“However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Don’t get carried away. Remember (and rejoice) that you are citizens of the Kingdom of the Heavens, which – yes – is why you can see demons submit; but right here and right now, your citizenship of the Kingdom is about so much more than simply casting out demons. Your assignment will inevitably include building (something – a family, a ministry, a business, something a lot bigger than you) and will require you knowing how to access health and provision and wisdom. So rejoice that you have access to the Kingdom – right here, and right now.
And if you need a warning, as well as an encouragement: demons will happily take the hit now, if it means they can draw your focus after them. If you for too long just rejoice that demons submit to you, the day will come when the tables turn because you have lost your connection with the King and His Kingdom. And then who will help you?
So focus on where your names are written as citizens, now. And rejoice in that!
Seeing the Kingdom 