It was a dark and stormy night. Olivia was unable to sleep. Her mind was consumed by disturbing thoughts that plagued her relentlessly.
Self-harming thoughts, faith-doubting thoughts, and a sense of rage overwhelmed her. She felt like a prisoner in her own mind, trapped by forces beyond her control.
These were not passing thoughts. These were strong compulsions, making her wrestle with every ounce of resistance not to act on them. Depression and irrational fears impeded her daily life.
What Olivia didn’t know was that her torment was the doing of an evil spirit – a demon sent by Satan himself to oppress her.
Olivia’s story is like of many people today. But the signs of demonic oppression are not always so blatant. They show up as uncontrollable dark thoughts – depression, anger, doubts, and fears that can paralyze a person’s life.
What’s important to recognize these signs as symptoms of a deeper, unseen battle…
In this post, I’ll discuss the reality of what demonic oppression looks like. I’ll reveal 10 signs that you may have a demon tormenting you. And how to get deliverance through the power of Jesus Christ.
Key Takeaways
- Jesus won the victory over Satan and his demons at the cross. Walk in that power and freedom!
- Look out for compulsive or irrational thoughts.
- Deep depression, rage, crippling doubt, and perverted desires are signs of demonic influence.
- Come to Jesus for deliverance through worship, confession and prayer.
- Seek support from mature Christians to cast out demons in His name.
- Be watchful after deliverance through reading God’s Word, prayer, fasting, worship, and obedience.
- Self-deliverance can be dangerous. Seek help from Christians with experience in the deliverance ministry.
Recognizing the Signs of Demonic Intrusion
27 When Jesus stepped ashore, he was met by a demon-possessed man from the town. For a long time this man had not worn clothes or lived in a house, but had lived in the tombs. 28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell at his feet, shouting at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don’t torture me!”
Luke 8:27-28 (NIV)
biblegateway.com
This was a case of extreme demonic possession. Few people are this possessed today. But many suffer from lesser degrees of demonic oppression and attack.
10 signs that a demon may be influencing your life
- Compulsive, uncontrollable thoughts and behaviors. Constant, obsessive temptations toward things like blasphemy, lust, hatred, suicide, or murder. You feel unable to control your thoughts and actions.
- Deep depression. Overwhelming sadness, despair, and low self-esteem that cripple your life. Medication and therapy don’t help.
- Irrational rage or anger. Frequent bursts of violent anger, hatred, or hostility toward others, sometimes without cause.
- Crippling doubt. Inability to trust in God even when you know the truth.
- Perverted desires. Sexual attractions and desires that are unnatural, compulsive, and bring shame. Yet you cannot resist them.
- Occult fascination. An attraction to astrology, psychics, witchcraft, New Age, or other spiritual practices.
- Confusion and forgetfulness. You can’t think clearly nor remember events and memories very often. Mental fogginess.
- Violent, terrifying thoughts. Forced, graphic thoughts and images of homicide, rape, or other evil acts of violence. They repulse you, yet they can’t stop.
- Nightmares and insomnia. Nightmares often portray scenes that evoke fear. Lack of sleep leaves one fatigued all the time.
- Irrational phobias. Panic, dread, or paralyzing fear with no real cause. The most common is fear of Christian worship, prayer, and deliverance.
If any of these symptoms describe you, you may be suffering some degree of demonic oppression.
However, take heart. Jesus has authority over evil, and His power can set you free!
Getting Free Through Deliverance in Jesus
12 When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” 13 Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God.
Luke 13:12-13 (NIV)
biblegateway.com
Jesus didn’t only heal. He delivered people from demonic spirits that caused mental and physical ailments. Come to Jesus for peace. Come for freedom.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Mathew 11:28 (NIV)
biblegateway
7 keys to freedom from demonic influence through deliverance in Jesus:
1. Worship and pray: Take out time and worship God in spirit and truth. Sing praises aloud and meditate on the Word of God. Ask God if there is any area of demonic stronghold in your life.
2. Confess your struggles: Be completely honest with God. Confess any ways you’ve opened doors for the enemy. Such as occult activities, addiction, bitterness, unforgiveness, etc.
3. Stand on God’s promises: Claim Bible verses about your authority in Jesus (Luke 10:19, Ephesians 6:10-18). Plead the blood of Jesus over your life.
4. Cast out the demons in Jesus’ name: While in prayer, command the oppressing spirits to leave you in Jesus’ name. Be firm and persistent.
5. Cut off their ‘supply’: Break any habits that feed the demons, such as watching porn or substance abuse. Instead read the Bible, pray and worship God.
6. Seek support and accountability: Join a church community for prayer and deliverance ministry. Surround yourself with mature believers who can support you.
7. Maintain vigilance through spiritual disciplines: Be watchful against demonic attacks after deliverance. Continue daily in worship, reading God’s Word, prayer, fasting, and obedience.
Conclusion
Deliverance in Jesus is true freedom! Jesus defeated the powers of darkness. So walk in the victory He purchased for you.
Jesus’ death and resurrection purchased our freedom from Satan and his demons. But we must walk in that authority and fight against their influence.
You will see your victory through the Spirit’s enabling!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How can I know if I have a demon for sure?
A. There are several signs of demonic oppression like intrusive attacks on one’s thinking and behavior. Observe the patterns over some time and get confirmation from mature spiritual leaders. Deliverance ministers can recognize demonic manifestations.
Q. What does demonic possession look like?
A. Demonic possession exhibits completely non-human behavior. Levitation, telekinesis, superhuman strength, trances, convulsions, and voice alteration are some expamples. Most cases today involve demonic oppression.
Q. Can Christians be demon possessed?
A. No, the Holy Spirit resides in a true believer. But Christians can suffer from demonic attacks if they open the door to the enemy.
Q. Is mental illness caused by demons?
A. Not always. Most mental disorders have physical causes in the brain. But demons can exploit certain illnesses, so deliverance can still help. Pursue medical treatment as well.
Q. How do I get a demon out once I know it’s there?
A. Confess your sin, renounce any dark activities and pray. Command the demons to leave in Jesus’ name. Seek support from Christians equipped in deliverance ministry.
Q. Can I deliver myself?
A. You can self-deliver, but it is not advisable. You need spiritual support and authority from other believers. It is best to seek the help of mature Christians who understand deliverance.
Q. What do I do after being delivered?
A. You will feel lighter and freer, and yet very exhausted. Take physical rest. Remain in spiritual disciplines to prevent demons from returning to you (Luke 11:24-26). Fellowship with other Christians for accountability, healing, and growth.
