Wednesday, October 21, 2026
City of Praise reflectionCourage and spiritual endurance — Luke 11:17-24
Courage and spiritual endurance
Today’s Scripture: Luke 11:17-24 (KJV)
- But he, knowing their thoughts, said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth.
- If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub.
- And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your sons cast them out? therefore shall they be your judges.
- But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you.
- When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace:
- But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.
- He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.
- When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out.
Guided reflection
Read Luke 11:17-24 slowly, then read the surrounding chapter. Watch what Jesus says and does, whom He addresses, and how people respond. Read the scene within the Gospel’s witness to His life, death and resurrection.
Attend especially to Luke 11:22: “But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.”
Observe: Who is speaking or acting, and what changes across these verses? Identify a word, action or contrast in Luke 11:17-24 that helps you explain the passage in your own words.
Reflect: What response to difficulty is encouraged here, and what shortcuts does it rule out? Ground your answer in Luke 11:22 and its surrounding verses. If the connection to this month’s theme is indirect, let the passage’s own meaning lead.
Respond: Face one postponed responsibility prayerfully, without retaliating or giving in to fear. Write one sentence explaining how your response follows from Luke 11:17-24, and return to it this evening.
Put the Word into practice
Choose one truth from today’s passage. Write down one practical step you can take today, then ask God for grace to follow through.
Today’s prayer
Father, as I consider Luke 11:22, give me courage joined with humility. Let the truth of this passage correct my assumptions and shape my response today. Help me practise what is faithful to Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Part of our Scripture-led study plan. Read the passage in context and use the prompts for personal reflection.