Discerning Darkness

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against rulers of the darkness of this age, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. – Ephesians 6:12

The first time I experienced a demonic force, I totally freaked out.

I was in my mid-to-late thirties and worked as a professional manicurist. I absolutely adored my clients. All but one. I learned that my up-close-and-personal profession required me to wear many hats to serve the varied personalities of those who sat in the chair across the table from me. Holding the hands and washing the feet of others opens the door for them to share with vulnerability. God has allowed me to listen and encourage many hurting souls.

One particular client, whom I will refer to as Mary, was a challenge from day one. She practiced immoral and demonic activities, such as grave soaking, was anti-government, anti-military, and was verbally offensive in her speech. For months, I asked God to help me be His light to Mary. At best, I was able to inject a few Pollyanna-style comments on rare occasions.

On the morning of her last scheduled appointment, I dreaded seeing her. I begged God, “Please, help me know what to say, and how to handle her when she arrives.” A few hours later, Mary came in for her appointment. She sat down and immediately went on a rant about something. I silently prayed as I feverishly worked on her nails. God, what do I do?

I glanced up and saw a dark gray, almost black fog floating from her heart, traveling down her arm toward the hand I was holding. I immediately let go. When I did, the dark smog vanished. Mary rambled on. She never noticed that I abruptly changed hands, worked faster than I had ever worked before, and finished her nails in record time.

When Mary went to wash her hands, I let the salon receptionist know that, under no uncertain terms, Mary is not to be rebooked with me. After Mary left the salon, the receptionist asked me, “Are you okay? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“A demonic one,” I answered.

Paul taught the church in Ephesus about the whole armor of God. I love how he encourages believers everywhere to be strong in the Lord and in His power. He also taught us how to armor ourselves. I find it fascinating that, sandwiched in Paul’s message, is the idea that with God’s armor we can stand against Satan's evil deception.

I thank God for His protection regarding the unholy spirit within Mary. I am grateful that the Holy Spirit within me guided me in breaking the demonic stronghold that tried to attach itself to me. “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4. Spiritual darkness may be stronger than us, but it is not stronger than God. When the Word of God and His Holy Spirit live in our hearts, all evil must flee. Praise Jesus!

Questions for Reflection:

1. How have you experienced spiritual darkness?

2. How are you prepared to battle against wickedness?

3. Research and memorize a Bible verse you can quote aloud. Psalm 27:1 is one to consider.