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Spiritual warfare seems to be one of those taboo subjects in Christian circles which is seldom discussed. Many Christians I discuss the subject with are alarmingly clueless on the matter and while this is not necessarily a bad thing (why give the dark time of day when the light is so good) I feel we should at least have some idea so as to not be ignorant on the subject, knowing how to deal with spiritual matters and help others should the need arise.
All GOD.
The bible is relatively silent on dealing with the specific elements of the occult, unlike the depth and detail of the various books I have read on the subject in passing, and people who commonly deal with such things—and I believe the bible excludes such detailed information for good reason.
I have found things of the occult from a defensive perspective, tend to incite an almost obsessive tenacity in some Christians—to the point they concentrate more on these things than the things of God.
I believe this silence in the Bible of spiritual matters above what you need to know is to keep yourself and others safe and to not give these spirits, or the things of the occult, any attention.
Commercialised catholic-style exorcisms are a poor example of dealing with spirits, namely in the mainstream movies and documentaries I have seen.
Talking to the spirits, arguing with them, reasoning with them, praying to angels and saints for assistance. Expressions of fear on those performing the exorcism and several sessions later, the demon might finally leave.
What would Jesus do?
Jesus did NONE of this. With the exception of briefly asking their name, He quite simply said, 'Be silent and leave' (Luke chapter 4, verse 41).
He did not converse with them or give them time of day, and neither should we.
The experiences I have had, although un-nerving at the time, would not make for a good Hollywood movie. When Jesus is in control, everything is straight to the point. He doesn't battle through us for months on end.
Doorways
Considering the people I have helped over the years and based on my own experiences, I have seen doorways through which demons seem to be able operate.
Notably, an idol in a home such as a Buddha figurine or mask—an object used in the worship of false god(s), sexual encounters including use of pornography, the use of occultic games—the list goes on.
Although I cannot find a direct biblical reference to demons operating through an object as I once experienced, I personally feel this and many more occultic relevances are not talked about for the good reason I mentioned earlier—to prevent people becoming intrigued with the occult, and potentially obsessed with it.
The majority of people whom I know, myself included, have used ouija boards and similar tools, have reported strange and sometimes terrifying experiences that continue long after the activities are ceased.
What can we do?
Several times people mention they have had spiritual experiences since they were a young child and with a bit of digging it is discovered that their parents or grand parents partook in some occultic practise.
In these instances, repenting of the sin on behalf of the relative, closes the door.
Jesus said that some spirits cannot be removed except by prayer (Matthew chapter 17 verses 14-20, Mark chapter 9 verses 14-29, Luke chapter 9 verses 37-43).
The Holy Spirit will teach us all things, and I feel that includes revelation on how to get rid of unusual occultic things when we come across them.
I have personally experienced someone become delivered by a demon regularly whispering negativity in their ear, through praise, worship and prayer re-asserting their allegiance of faith. It was over within seconds.
The Bible gives us a simple manner of what we need to know about spiritual warfare without it distracting us from the things of God.
Wear the full armour of God
Ephesians chapter 6 verses 10-18 goes on to give us the details of this armour of God, we are to stand firm with the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, the sword of the spirit and by praying in the spirit.
Do not talk to spirits—tell them to be silent and leave (Luke chapter 4, verse 41).
We are warned not to personally oppose the schemes of the devil as in Ephesians chapter 6, verses 10-18.
But remember, believers in Christ are not to fear demons, although we are to be vigilant and alert for their temptations (1 Peter chapter 5, verse 8). The key is submission to God and walking in the truth of Christ daily: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James chapter 4, verse 7).
Prayer and worship can go a long way, as I have previously found spirits can not stand an atmosphere of worship. Those who have put their faith in Christ have nothing to fear, as the apostle John explained, “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome [Satan and his false prophets], because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John chapter 4, verse 4).
Michael Dahlenburg is an electronics engineer currently working in the ATM industry. He is non-denominational and has previously been involved in church plants and assisting those in ministry. His interests include; enjoying family, home DIY, gardening, most things tech-related and driving his wife crazy with a constant stream of inventions! You can view his blog site here: www.mickdahl.weebly.com
He lives with his wife Michelle and three children in God’s own land of Southern Adelaide, Australia.
Michael Dahlenburg’s previous articles may be viewed at
http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/michael-dahlenburg.html
Michael Dahlenburg is an electronics technician. He is non-denominational and has previously been involved in church plants and assisting those in ministry. His interests include; enjoying family, home DIY, gardening, most things tech-related and driving his wife crazy with a constant stream of inventions! He lives with his wife Michelle and three children in God’s own land of Southern Adelaide, Australia.Michael Dahlenburg’s previous articles may be viewed at http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/michael-dahlenburg.html