May 23, 2024 Devo

This is such an amazing passage of scripture. I doubt that the Roman officer had much of an understanding of theology, but there was one thing he did understand—Authority. As an officer in the Roman army, he was a person of authority. He could command those lower in rank than he was. He could command the slaves he owned. But none of the authority he had was his own. It was given to him from those above him. When he exercised his authority, people had to obey. Because when he spoke, he was speaking on behalf of the Emperor who had empowered him. To defy the Roman officer was to defy Caesar. It was to defy Rome.
That’s what gave this officer such a unique perspective on Jesus. He knew that no mere mortal could do the things Jesus did. A man, even a religious man, couldn’t command demons to flee as Jesus did. A simple man couldn’t heal the lepers and the lame. No, this Roman officer realized that Jesus had authority over these things, but that authority had to come from a Higher Power. Such authority could only be given by God. That’s why he told Jesus that all He needed to do was, “Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed.” What amazing confidence he had in the authority he believed God had given Jesus.
“Just say the word.” Do YOU have that same confidence? Do you believe that Jesus still has all authority in heaven and on earth? Do you believe He has authority over disease? Do you believe He has authority over the struggles you're facing and the trials you’re going through? I invite you to put your trust in Jesus just as the Roman officer did. Lay your needs before Jesus today and speak that same prayer of confidence that he spoke. “Lord Jesus, JUST SAY THE WORD.” That’s God’s Word for you today.