👑 Authority Can Be Taken Away

Devotional Thoughts

This is a continuation of yesterday’s devotion, “Know Your Authority in Christ.” Yesterday, we discussed the spiritual authority Christ has given us—authority over sin, over fear, and over the schemes of the enemy. Today, we turn our attention to a sobering truth: authority, while freely given, can also be taken away.

Spiritual authority is powerful and essential for victorious Christian living, but it isn’t unconditional. It is sustained by relationship, obedience, and stewardship.

King Saul was chosen by God, anointed, and given full authority to lead Israel. Yet in 1 Samuel 13, he disobeyed God by taking on the priestly role and offering a sacrifice—something only the prophet Samuel was permitted to do. That single act of disobedience cost him his throne. God removed his authority and gave it to David—a man after His own heart.

In the parable of the talents in Matthew 25, Jesus tells of three servants entrusted with their master’s wealth. Two invested wisely and were rewarded. The third, however, buried his one talent out of fear and laziness. The master called him wicked and lazy, and even took the little he had, giving it to another. Though the servant didn’t misuse the gift, doing nothing with it was enough to lose it.

Both Saul and the unfaithful servant show us that authority isn't just about receiving—it’s about responsibility. Disobedience and neglect can forfeit what God has entrusted to us.

Practical Reflection

Ask yourself:

• Am I walking faithfully in the authority God has given me?

• Have I neglected or buried a calling out of fear or hesitation?

• Is there any area where I’ve compromised obedience like Saul?

God is gracious, but He also expects us to steward well what He places in our hands. Let’s be honest with ourselves and bring any area of neglect or disobedience before Him.

Closing Thoughts

Spiritual authority is a privilege, not a right. It’s sustained by surrender, obedience, and action. Saul lost his authority through disobedience. The unfaithful servant lost his by doing nothing. Let us learn from both and walk faithfully in what God has entrusted to us. He desires to increase our authority—but only if we handle it with reverence and diligence.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the authority You’ve given me through Jesus Christ. Help me never to take it for granted. Show me where I may have walked in disobedience or passivity. Restore what has been lost, and give me the courage and wisdom to walk in faithfulness. Let me be a good steward of Your calling—always humble and responsive to Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.