Reading: Matthew 18:18; John 20:21-23

Devotional: Jesus promised His church authority—keys to the kingdom, power to bind and loose. But notice the order: confession precedes authority. Peter first declared Jesus as Christ, then Jesus spoke of building His church, and only then did authority follow. Authority is downstream of surrender. Many churches today operate with religious activity but lack spiritual authority because they've removed Christ as the cornerstone. When Jesus is Lord, heaven backs what is declared on earth. When He's not, there's only religious noise. This applies personally too—your prayers, witness, and spiritual warfare carry authority only when aligned with Christ's lordship. You cannot exercise Christ's authority while rejecting His lordship. Today, submit every area to Him and watch heaven echo your obedience.