Activated
Matthew 8:8-9 MKJV
(8) The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof; but only speak the word, and my boy will be healed.
(9) For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, Go! And he goes; and to another, Come! And he comes; and to my servant, Do this! And he does it.
Not everyone who dons the uniform of an officer walks in the fullness of the authority it provides. To just have a sufficient amount of stripes and the official title before a name does nothing for the one who holds back from activating the power of their office. Just taking the quick start classes and becoming knowledgeable of all that is acquired in the promotion from foot soldier to commander will be of little significance until the fullness of the power is put to use. While a gun at the side and the stick hanging on the belt may provide an ominous appearance, they alone won’t be the activators of the existing authority. It will be something quite simple that has been with them since birth. It will be the word that comes out of their mouth. Until there is a willingness to command, the position of commander is nothing more than a plaque on the wall and a striking appearance. However, as soon as words of authority begin to flow from the mouth of the officer, there is activation given to their ever-present authority and something gets done. No words– no action, protection or advance.
We have been donned with clothes of righteousness bought for us by the blood of the Lamb. Jesus has defeated our enemy and directly given to us the authority to command, resist and overcome. How often, though, is this authority never activated and put to use in our lives. Like the shy, self conscious, or ignorant officer, there is an incredible amount of victory and overcoming power awaiting but a word. So many mountains are waiting for just a word from a God– inspired person to make their way into the sea. How much sickness is endured just because a word has yet to be spoken to it? How many bank accounts are depleted because a word has not yet been spoken to finances? We’re full of authority, just needing a word to activate it.