Demonic Encounters Of The Third Kind

Demonic Encounters Of The Third Kind

The Bible makes it clear that demons exist. There are several accounts of exorcisms throughout the Bible. Media often portrays exorcism (usually from a Catholic point of view) as being something that it isn’t where actions triumph faith. Exorcisms still take place and have varying levels of severity. In the Bible, one of the most prominent exorcisms occur when Jesus casts out Legion from a man who was living in the tombs. Jesus sent the demons into a horde of pigs who consequently killed themselves by hurling themselves into the sea. You can read the story starting in Matthew 8:28.

I did not plan on discussing the topic of demonic assault this week. I had planned on talking about sanctification today, but that can wait till next week. On July 21, 2017, I experienced a demonic attack. Now, there needs to be an important clarification: demons cannot possess a believer, but they can influence a believer. James 4:7 says, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will free from you.” The optimum word here is resist. Resistance is not the same as casting out. Other such support can be found throughout the Bible. There is no record of a Christian being possessed in the bible—only influenced.

I am prone to having nightmares. Very rarely does a night pass where I do not have one. While I believe a great deal of this could stem from a fascination with morbidity and horror, I also take it as an opportunity to strengthen me against the horrors of the world. I awoke in my bed from a minor nightmare. Something was different this time. I could not move.

I believe I was experiencing a phenomenon called “sleep paralysis.” Sleep paralysis is when the mind and body don’t connect fully and render the body in a temporary paralysis. While one is conscious, their brain has not yet begun to send signals to their body to move. Common side effects of sleep paralysis are feelings of being watched and feelings of terror.

As I lay paralyzed, I heard the voice of a little girl in my head accompanied by a gripping fear. Now, many would try to rationalize this occurrence by saying that it was just an effect from sleep. I must reiterate that I was fully conscious. I was thinking clearly. The voice of the little girl threatened to rape my mother and to kill my dogs. I saw a shape looming over my shoulder and I could turn my head a bit to see the little girl. My brain went on auto-pilot and I began rebuking the demon by petitioning God to banish it. I do not know how long I rebuked the demon, but I eventually found myself with a feeling of lightness and serenity.

I believe this occurrence to be a demonic encounter. I have had a similar one in the past and I do not believe it was demonic even though the figure I saw was much more imposing. This most recent encounter however, was the first time I ever prayed while the attack took place. My message today might not apply to everyone, but I believe it is important. The first service I ever attended at iChurch was on demonic oppression. I remember Pastor Carlos mentioning how demons will attack when they see you serving God more fervently and passionately. I have been growing my faith at a very fast rate and am taking constant opportunities to nurture it. I think Satan has tried to fight back.

Remember, that if you ever experience a demonic presence, they cannot hurt you with God at your side. You are protected by the greatest protector ever. Fall into a state of rebuking: pray for the demon to be banished. Worship God. I blatantly insulted the demon and boasted of how great God is. Through God, we wield a power that can triumph over the greatest evil.

Source: iChurch