Reading the Word

Luke 11:24–26 (ESV)

24 “When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and finding none it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ 25 And when it comes, it finds the house swept and put in order. 26 Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and dwell there. And the last state of that person is worse than the first.”

Parallel Text: Matthew 12:43-45

Understanding and Applying the Word

In today’s reading, Jesus warns about the necessity of making a decision about him. There is no neutral ground.

When a demon has gone out of a person (notice this is not one that has been cast out) it goes through the water less places seeking rest. The desert was believed to be the dwelling place of demons except when they had taken up residence in someone or something. When the demon could not find a suitable place to go, it decided to return from where it had come. The old house had been cleaned up and put in order so that the place was better than ever. Though it had been cleaned up, it had not been filled. As a result, the demon went out and invited others to join him in the fine accommodations. Now the situation was worse than at the beginning.

We often try to clean up our lives in our own strength. We may even feel like we have done it at times. However, personal reform does not last long. We need the life-giving presence and power of the Holy Spirit working in us to bring us true victory over evil. The Spirit is given to all who trust in Jesus Christ. Pray that Christ would send the Spirit to give you new life and remain with you to give you the power and strength you need each day to live for Jesus.

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