Jesus and Demons

“He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me, scatters.’  Luke 11:23 (NIV)

How do we feel about the subject of evil spirits?  Do we like to consider the presence of demons?  Is that a road which we would prefer not to travel too far down?  Would it be safer not to get too deep into those darker issues?  But what do we do with the fact that Jesus, the Son of God, talking about them?  How can we get a grip?  Can we brush off the subject as frivolous?  Does it mean we need to study up on them?  Have we ever approached the Lord with our questions?

Jesus heals a man who had been afflicted.  When the evil leaves the man he is finally able to talk.  Those who witness this miracle are amazed.  Some start thinking that Jesus is connected with the Devil.  Others just want to test the Lord.  Does Jesus attempt to give us a little insight?  Would it be possible that He sees things that we can´t?  Would He give us just enough information on the subject, if we let Him?  Could that be what He is trying to do now?  Shall we approach Him too for a little light?

Might it be important to note that Jesus does touch on the subject?  Does He give very little explanation?  Would He do that on purpose?  Is it important to know that there is something there, but that diving too deep into it is reserved for people so inclined?  Would those who choose to get too deep into the nature and aspect of dark things already be showing where their inclinations are?

Jesus does continue to tell us a few things about the nature of these beasts.  So shall we accept His warnings?  Shall we nudge in a little closer as it appears He knows what He is talking about?  Does it give us courage against our fears that He can see what we don´t?  Could being close to Him provide us with security against any harm?  Does Jesus speak as if the dark forces are real enough?  Does He share of their hierarchy and their dark intentions?  Would He have us know that they do not have our best interests in mind?  Would He have us understand that whatever they are, their primary goal is to separate us from the Lord and make us suffer?  Does Jesus point out to us that people may be cleansed from their devious work?  Does He make reference to the intelligence of their organization?  Do we get the impression that there is someone or something designing and seeing through with their dark plans?  Are we left with the impression that it is good that we have God looking out for us?  Does it throw us further upon Him for help and protection?

Therefore when Jesus mentions these dark powers, what reaction can we have?  Will we choose to make it a positive one?  Will we scoff off His attempt to encourage and enlighten us?  Will we lose an opportunity to draw close to Him?  Could we embrace the thought that He is looking out for us?  Shall we try to get close enough to Him that if there is any danger to us, we will be safer even though we may not completely understand what that danger is?  Will He continue to lead and guide us?  Will He bring us safe to our Father one day?

Dear Jesus, we may not see how real and how dire are the presence of evil forces.  But we take courage that You do.  Please accept our humble honesty and let us come closer to You.  Show us today what we would need to know about any danger or threat to our eternal health.  If there is something that would harm us or keep us from You or Your Kingdom, please open us to that awareness.  Then lead us onward and upward.  Keep us and guide us home to our Father Who loves us, we pray.

Amen