Spiritually Unequal Marriage

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Terrorist Training Camp 2014

Good Monday morning SUMites!  Every January it seems to happen. Right after our annual fast my spirit is burning to do some spiritual, butt kicking. And this January is no…

image from www.spirituallyunequalmarriage.comGood Monday morning SUMites! 

Every January it seems to happen. Right after our annual fast my spirit is burning to do some spiritual, butt kicking. And this January is no exception. So, I would like to welcome you once again to the “Spiritual Terrorist Training Camp.” And once again I would like to welcome the FBI who will likely be reading this series because their computers have just detected a blog using the words Terrorist Training Camp. Welcome back guys! Hope you enjoyed last year’s posts! 

In last year’s series we dealt with recognizing spiritual warfare, discovering who are the captives and who are prisoners in the spiritual and how we can recognize our captivity and find freedom. (Find a link to that series in the sidebar) This year I want the SUMites to join me as we explore some different aspects of spiritual warfare. I want us to shine the bright light of heaven upon some very real spirits that wreak havoc in our lives and in our world. I’m praying with fervor and passion that this series leads us to two breakthroughs. 

One, we must first experience a personal breakthrough. When we recognize an enemy spirit and its work in and around us and then combat it with truth, love and the power and authority of Christ, we become free. Thus we can then begin to free others. 

Two, as newly anointed Hope-Restorers, assigned to change this generation, we are contending for our homes, and our cities and collectively our nations. We truly are going to learn to be empowered to bring change at that level. 

Before we step off into some pretty deep research and topics, I want to take a minute to address a few things and answer some needed questions. 

  1. Research indicates that more than half of believers don’t believe there is a devil, or hell or demons. So, many of you want to really know, how do you know there are demons, hell or a devil?
  2. Can a Christian be possessed? Can a Christian be oppressed? What does that mean anyway?
  3. How does an ordinary 5’4″ blond mom stand up against and defeat the legions of evil? Is that even possible? 

Answers 

  1. We, the Spiritually Mismatched, are actually on the front lines of the spiritual battlefield. We stand alone to pray, to speak scripture and declare God’s power and authority in our lives. Often our very own spouse is a gateway that opens the door to evil presence and activity. However, we are so much more powerful. 

As I sit in front of my computer the Holy Spirit is flooding my soul with scripture after scripture that screams of this truth. I will share one right now and more as we work through this series. 

1 Corinthians 7:12 To the rest I say this (I, not the Lord): If any brother has a wife who is not a believer and she is willing to live with him, he must not divorce her. 13 And if a woman has a husband who is not a believer and he is willing to live with her, she must not divorce him. 14 For the unbelieving husband has been sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife has been sanctified through her believing husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy. 

 

There is great power and authority contained in an ordinary believer. And this verse brings enormous power into our lives. 

Think about it. Verse 14…… The unbelieving husband has been sanctified. That means made Holy and brought under the umbrella of God’s covering and love because we the wife are sanctified. 

Okay… I just realized this post is ALREADY going long. So, I promise we will get to some more in the days ahead. 

CONVERSATION: 

So today, let’s discuss in the comments the four questions above and your thoughts about how 1 Cor. 7:12-14 play out in our marriage and everyday living. Do you sanctify your home? Do you know what that looks like? If you don’t, how do we bring this passage to reality in our marriage? Do you think demons are real? Have you contended with evil and prevailed? I will be in the comments with you. 

We are stepping off now into a great adventure. When we emerge on the end of this series, you can bet that you will have a knowledge and power that absolutely terrifies the dark realm. So, rise up Hope-Restorers because we have families to fight for, marriages to revive and cities to contend for. I love you so much. Lynn

Comments

78 responses

  1. Gillian Avatar
    Gillian

    I seem to always be up before everyone else, so this morning I’ll go first.
    I would say I sanctify my home w praise music, house blessing, prayers, and God truths on my walls.
    I feel I have seen the Corinthians play out over the last year, it began w 4 words from a dream on the middle of the fast week, ‘hope I’ve added water’. Which to me spoke about the passage of the woman at the well in John 4, that the Holy Spirit would become a spring welling up to eternal life. This was completely confirmed as 2 days later I tearily read through the passage – God spoke to me that the Holy Spirit was now active on my husband’s heart, certainly in a way He hadn’t been before…and I knew it was because of my prayers and my faith. And all year I watched little changes taking place, and God shake things up, and his heart begin to soften, just in general.

    Reply
  2. Martha Bush Avatar
    Martha Bush

    I read this real early this morning, and then an hour later—–well, let’s just say, my husband shall know truth and the truth shall set him free of the lies the enemy has told him. I am so ready to be joined by this community in spiritual warfare.

    Reply
  3. Theresa Avatar
    Theresa

    I know for certain that the enemy and his demons are real–though he fools many people, including my husband. I have experienced VERY significant spiritual warfare in many areas, including attacks on my children, myself and my husband. Almost unbelievable (my husband does not believe me and has actually called me crazy) but very real things have happened to me. I read the Book “Invisible War” by Chip Ingram which helped me a lot.
    I sanctify my home by covering it and my family in prayer, listening to worship music, keeping as much Christian material and scripture around as I can, and talking to my children regularly about God and His Truth.
    Excited for this series! Loved the one last year.

    Reply
  4. Lynette Avatar
    Lynette

    I believe in warfare and demons. I have never seen one but I have sensed them…or maybe it would be better to say I can discern evil…when things just aren’t right. To sanctify my home…it’s hard…I try to watch things that are pure, but hubby’s tastes are not the same. I only listen to christian music, he listens to secular. I pray for him and my son. I watch a lot of Hallmark channel and the movies on there. He watches them too, even says if he thinks it was really good. SO, it’s a start. Looking forward to the Orphan Spirit post!
    (P.S. Good morning FBI! God bless you!)

    Reply
  5. Heather Passuello Avatar
    Heather Passuello

    I believe in the spiritual world for sure. I believe in Hell and Demons and I believe they try to sabotage anything that represents Christ in our lives and His work. I don’t believe that Christians can be possessed by demons because the Holy Spirit lives in us, I do however believe we can be oppressed by demons, if we let it happen. I have never seen a demon or spirit, but I have felt the presence of evil in my home when I watched a movie that dealt with evil. To combat that I prayed because there was a spirit of fear that I can’t even describe. Within minutes of praying and declaring the power of Jesus, the fear lifted and the presence was gone. How I sanctify my home and marriage…. I believe prayer is a huge part of it, but I am guilty of not praying like I need to. Also, just being a godly example. Loving my spouse for WHO he is NOW and not who I WISH he was. I also want to throw out here that if you don’t every so often feel spiritually attacked, then you may need to look at your life because I believe that Satan and his demons don’t attack people who are already living for him….

    Reply
  6. Gillian Avatar
    Gillian

    Also, my experience w spiritual warfare is mostly understanding what is behind DH’s words, or my own thought patterns… And recognizing that. Besides my usual prayers I find I do my actual front line spiritual battling in my dreams, which I find really interesting. Has anyone else experienced this??

    Reply
  7. Dawn B Avatar
    Dawn B

    I absolutely believe in the spiritual world and the forces of darkness that exist. I believe I have had two definite and one (questionable) physical encounters with demons. I know my husband is a deceived prisoner and hostage. I combat spiritual attacks by praying the armor of God over every person in my family (J, Lily, Kate and Myself) every morning before I ever get out of bed. I now have my mom praying it over herself and my dad every day too. Sometimes I have to re-apply the Helmet of Salvation when I feel Satan’s fiery darts of doubts and temptations (multiple times a day.) I try to remember that I am at war with Satan and not with my husband as is stated in Eph 6:12. I am battle weary and worn beyond belief, but my word of the year is VICTORY! That’s the beauty of spiritual warfare – the VICTORY is ours. I’m trying to remember that VICTORY will not likely look like what I have in mind, but it will be Victory none-the-less and better than what I can imagine.

    Reply
  8. Stone Avatar
    Stone

    For the longest time I did not want to believe in spiritual warfare and demons because of the dark enviorent that I grew up in. I always sensed darkness within my childhood home and it became more and more apparent as circumstances got worse and horror films were forced upon my sisters and I. After being forced to watch the exorcist I actually began seeing demons standing outside my bedroom door and laying in my mothers bed. I remember praying the name of Jesus over and over sometimes for hours. For 20 years I didn’t want to believe that it was anything more than my imagination and fear having run away with me. However now that I believe in the power of the Holy Spirit I can no longer deny that the enemy is also at work against the power of The Gospel and we are given the armor of God for a reason, there is a battle and we are called to fight.

    Reply
  9. Noz Avatar
    Noz

    I thank you for this blog, I do believe in demons, the devil, principalities, powers, spiritual wickedness in high places. I believe we have been given all authority over the enemy. Sometimes I wake up furious and angry and I pray angrily and the demons flee. I believe my husband is a hostage and I have encountered some I am sure. the blood of Jesus, the blood and grace sets us free!

    Reply
  10. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

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    Amen.. Amen,… AMEN. And we have all authority and victory. Luke 9:1-2. Amen. When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. 

    Reply
  11. Stone Avatar
    Stone

    Your words, and the scriptures you’ve pointed out to me have been so encouraging to me as I’ve really embraced this journey to discovering the power of the Holy Spirit and the reality of spiritual warfare. I love having the assurance that through Jesus we have authority and victory and fear can not overtake me unless I give it that authority. These truths have radically changed what I believe about prayer and the way that I pray. It has changed my heart and mind about making my relationship with Him the absolute priority in my life. Last week was filled with one attack after another as I prepared to be a part of a conference but instead of cowering I fear I went out and walked and prayed and dug into scripture and prayer and refused to let the enemy defeat me before the conference even started. It was exciting to live last week knowing that I belong to the Victor, Jesus Christ and that I am a warrior, standing with Him and under his love and protection.

    Reply
  12. Bunnyb1802 Avatar
    Bunnyb1802

    Hi Gillian,
    Yes, like you, I have found that warfare happens most usually when I’m asleep and I battle in my dreams. It’s been happening in the last week and, only two weeks ago, I found myself waking up and feeling an oppressive force in the room which I immediately prayed for protection from God for both of us.
    God doesn’t limit our ability to be able to warfare just during our waking hours. A friend of mine frequently finds she is praying during her sleep and has dreams.
    I praise God that He is involved in every part of our life, waking and sleeping and His protection surrounds us all the time.

    Reply
  13. Bunnyb1802 Avatar
    Bunnyb1802

    I had a chat recently with some ladies and we all agreed that, whilst we may not like the idea of Hell or want to talk about it, the fact is it exists. I struggle with knowing that and I struggle knowing that the bible says those who don’t accept God will ultimately head there. It’s hard to hear, to read especially as we think of our unsaved loved ones. But it is a part of our faith, it is in the Book that God gave us for our instruction on how to live this life. We can’t get away from it.
    I also believe in demons and demonic influence because I have experiences of it. I believe that we must pray protection over our marriages and that we do come under spiritual attack from these forces in our marriages, against us and against our loved ones.
    However, whilst I know that they exist and have influence, I am more impressed with God’s power than theirs. We need to understand the enemy and his tactics but we always need to remain aware that God is greater and is the victor

    Reply
  14. jenn Avatar
    jenn

    I do believe. I have had more sensing of them lately. I feel they are on my husband, and at times on my sons. They have come out in different forms with my children. My youngest behavior has been appalling a lot lately. It is as if he has no inner conscience. He has been lying, stealing from us, etc. My oldest gets attacked with self doubt, and fears. He even says the devil is attacking my mind mom:( A couple of months ago my husband heard claw noises in the middle of night on the floor. We initially thought something had got inot the house, but after setting traps, nothing, no sign of anything. Even he admits it was “not earthly”.

    Reply
  15. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Gill,
    Girl, so amazing how this passage has come alive in your life as well. And I am so amazed at all that God is doing in your life. We are going to rise and be sentinels in the Lord’s Kingdom. We are going to see the light of Jesus shine even brighter and brighter.. We get to be part of all of it. I can’t wait and I’m so glad you are doing this with us. Love you.

    Reply
  16. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Bunny,
    My friend, I’ve had this very thing happen to me as well. In fact, I think this is more common than we think. You are right to start praying and speak scripture too. OUT LOUD.
    We are going to learn a lot. And the enemy is very angry that we are about to expose him. Woo Hoo. Glad you joining the ride… It’s going to be a blast. Hugs,

    Reply
  17. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Martha,
    I am contending for all that you are contending. I declare into the spiritual realm that the heart of Martha’s husband is now claimed by the Lord Jesus. I ask for angels to be dispatched to bring Jesus before this mans eyes and ears continually for a long many months. Bring his complete salvation and allow Martha to marvel at how this all plays out. In Jesus name. Amen.

    Reply
  18. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Theresa,
    Girl, I just bet that when you start to pray… the enemy freaks out with sheer terror. You are a giant in the realms and I expect God will reward you with riches and abundance.
    Lord Jesus, I also declare angels be sent to this home that have razor sharp feathers to cut through the darkness and bring her entire house to full salvation, especially her spouse. In King Jesus name. Amen.

    Reply
  19. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Amen…. It’s a start. And Lynette. I’m contending for all God has assigned to you. It’s bigger than you can image this day in January but you are key to bringing the Kingdom to earth. Pray often the Lord’s prayer. Lord, bring about a full salvation int he heart of Lynette’s husband and son. In Jesus name. Amen
    PS. Dineen and I laughed so hard at your PS to the FBI. We adore you and you make us smile. Hugs.

    Reply
  20. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Wow Heather… Wow.. Good stuff here. And I agree absolutely with your last sentance. Wow.
    Girl, I fought in the early years of my marriage the fear with a passage from Timothy. Brilliant!!!!
    2 Timothy 1:7 7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
    Awesome.

    Reply
  21. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Wow Dawn,
    You are amazing. I stand with you as we march into battle to defeat the deceptions and lies of the dark realms. In Jesus name. I declare protection over Dawn and her home. I declare her husband to see truth and to fight for what is right . In Jesus name. Amen.

    Reply
  22. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Amen Stone… You are destined to help so many. The enemy will come hard and fast toward you. BUT…. There are many, including me, who stand at your defense…. Ask God to open your natural eyes to see the angels that stand before you with swords drawn. WOO HOOOOOOOOOO. We WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Reply
  23. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Noz,
    Girl, you and I are so alike. Man, I get really mad and I walk around praying with fury at the devil and the enemy. They are so afraid because I send them to the pit where they are chained and can never return. And when I’m really mad, I tell the angels torturer them. Let’s do some butt kickin’ together girl. Love you.

    Reply
  24. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    So, SOOOOO, Well said!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Reply
  25. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Wow Jenn,
    Girl, we are going to do battle for your home. I want you to anoint every door and window in your house with a touch of olive oil. And as you do, say out loud. This day forward this house belongs to Jesus. I declare angels, warrior angels, at every door with swords drawn to block any and all evil from entering our house. In Jesus name. Amen. Say it outloud. Glad you are on this ride with us. Love you. You will contend for your family and it will last generations.

    Reply
  26. Celia Avatar
    Celia

    I am looking forward to reading more about all of this. I don’t know if I believe in demons…..but I am interested in seeing where this conversation goes.

    Reply
  27. Karla Avatar
    Karla

    I, too, believe in spiritual warfare and demons. I have annointed my house with olive oil on one occasion, and intend to do so again. Yes, the Spirit lives in us; that is why we do not like to watch certain movies, read certain books, listen to certain music — the content is offensive to the Spirit. I loved Heather’s comment about needing to love her spouse for WHO he is now, not who she WISHES him to be. I tell myself this same thing about my spouse, but I have great difficulty at this because I find him to be so offensive most of the time. He needs the Lord so badly. Eager to get started on this butt kickin’ journey! Thanks, Lynn

    Reply
  28. Heidi Avatar
    Heidi

    I have experienced it and it really scares me to even talk about it. Those of you that know me here know I was in an extremely violent marriage some years ago. My ex husband I now know was seriously possessed so much evidence and happenings as I can only now look back on an even acknowledge that they even happened. He had this sweet nice funny guy that everyone loved and then when we were alone this other evil dark sick twisted man came out. I look back now and KNOW why he had the weird habit of laughing in a sinister way after we were intimate. This is totally creeping me our now as I type this, had no idea these thoughts of what happened even existed. My sister as since told me when she stayed at my house once she felt an evil presence and had to leave. Now I know why……Yuck yuck yuck!!! I’m so glad his evil is no longer in my presence……Aaaa gross

    Reply
  29. Janet Avatar
    Janet

    Daily I pray over our home and property– that it will be a safe haven for us and all who God sends here. Weekly I also cleanse our home, room by room, since I know I cannot control what my teens or hubby watch, stuff attached to book bags/school materials, music played, anything attached to gifts, etc. Even though I purchased our piano from a wonderful Christian I still prayed a cleansing prayer over it. For the most part I do believe our home to be a refuge from evil– I’ve seen & felt enough to know. But I do know it creeps in bcuz I’ve seen & felt demons too. A few weeks ago while praying for God to remove anything unclean that has entered our home a black blob moved all around, low to the ground, bolting down our main level steps and swirling about almost terrorizing my dog before it exited. I really believed my dog was going to go through a glass door attacking it as it left. I about fainted. I have never become accustomed to what I see.

    Reply
  30. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    Heidi. Like your sister? I too “felt” that “presence” in my home on return visits. I am never comfortable there anymore and I can’t stay for extended periods of time because of it. It is not the same anymore. Thus the saying for me is true…”You can’t go home again.” All I can say is I have seen a vision of the enemy helping my mother drink. Sitting beside her with his hand on her glass lifting it to her mouth over and over again. As much as I try to help I have heard God tell me…”This is bigger than you.” The feeling as I stood at the sink for a glass of water was like being hit with the flu bug instantly in seconds. My bones started aching and my soul and body felt like I was being tugged downward. Then I heard..”GET OUT!” You are not alone with experiences! (((HUG)))

    Reply
  31. Tina Linder Avatar
    Tina Linder

    I know what you mean when you say you can sense them and I am starting to realize and believe satan tries to attack me through my husband .But in the “mist” of it I do not realize that and verbally attack back like a wounded lion

    Reply
  32. Heidi Avatar
    Heidi

    Wow that is pretty much what my sister said!

    Reply
  33. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

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    Amen.. Amen. And now Heidi… You are going to live the rest of your life defeating evil. Sharing the love of Jesus. The is power in the name of Jesus.  And evil doesn’t even know what to do with love. LOVE conquers all. Your triumph out of that situation for the rest of eternity give great glory and honor and power to our King. AMEN 

    Reply
  34. Kathy Avatar
    Kathy

    I believe in demons, devils, hell. Oh yes, for sure there is spiritual warfare. When God is working. the warfare increases. There are times that I have felt oppressed by the evil forces. It is very weird. as there are times that all of the sudden I feel down for no reason at all. I would sit there and think what is wrong with me. I’ve come to realize that it is the devil. I have learned that is the time for me to pour on the praise to the Lord. As I praise that oppressed weird feeling disappears. I know in my mismatched marriage that I am often being attacked. The devil would like me to walk out on this marriage but the Lord won’t let me! It is a battle. BUT every time I take this to the Lord He scoops me up in His arms and protects me!

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  35. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    AMEN that you recognize IT and know already how to fight Kathy. I have noticed that “praying on the armour” daily has a made a HUGE difference for me! ANGEL GUARD! AMEN!

    Reply
  36. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    I believe that movies and music offer an open door to satanic forces because we often are not expecting that we need to have our armor on. Sometimes music can be so pretty that we don’t even process the lyrics fully, yet they seep in. Then BAMB! An ugly thought or image is in our head. There are several movies I wish I has not seen. Even Disney is getting into political propaganda. This is an area I try to be more attentive to than in the past.

    Reply
  37. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    I totally get what you are sharing here Janet. My husband works away from home. I just recently started taking the enemy VERY seriously on a WHOLE NEW LEVEL as David shared a dream with me that he had where he was fighting a SNAKE in his BED! He awoke in a sweat with the bed sheets soaked and his pillows all swiped to the floor. This snake had…quote…”curled up beside me in bed and I was fighting to get it off!” When David emailed those words my jaw dropped and I KNEW I had a battle on my hands because HE would NEVER take this seriously to realize THIS IS…a BATTLE!
    I got him to send me photos of his apartment so I could pray over them with my hand on the computer screen picturing each room…PLUS I have started sending him the “I am Second” videos to watch which will release God’s NAME/Power into his apartment because I know there is nothing else in the name of Jesus being released into David’s atmosphere.
    I am Second videos in case this is new to anyone is people who have come to Christ and their testimony is videotaped.

    Reply
  38. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    …that is why we do not like to watch certain movies, read certain books, listen to certain music — the content is offensive to the Spirit.
    Loved that truth Karla.
    Refresh the feelings of your wedding day and let that empower you to fight. In Jesus Name. XO

    Reply
  39. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    I have another book for you Cee! (wink) As soon as I’m done…it’s your’s!

    Reply
  40. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    I too have strange noises in my home Jenn and I refuse to let them bother me. I have ANGEL GUARDS! Thank God!…and a mean barking dog.

    Reply
  41. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    Yes. I battle demons … And God is winning. Not long ago, while a loved one ranted … Raged really, I made a gesture of collecting the demon from the air, wadding it into a ball, and throwing out a window while saying ” Demon of anger, get out,” it totally worked. Try it.
    I have felt attacks on me. Recently, ideas pop in my head that are truly not the way I think. Doubts that I don’t feel. Dumb, ugly thoughts. I cast these out. Sometimes I even laugh at them. “Go on. Get out. The Lord reigns here. You go. ”
    Demons have been attacking a loved one so long that he believes they are logical and his own thinking. It seems normal to him. Statistics would tell me to give up hope. But this person has already overcome one long standing attack. I will just keep praying.

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  42. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    Love you Lynette and everything you said here.

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  43. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    In the words of Robin Williams…”GOOOOOOD MOOOORNING FBIIIIIIII!!!!!”

    Reply
  44. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    ??

    Reply
  45. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    I personally have always believed and for MANY years was very frightened by this knowledge of demons. Even as a new believer.
    However, as I have started to grow in my walk with The Lord, and am living in constant spiritual battle for my marriage, I am no longer frightened. I’m definitely more aware of he attacks and I see some tactics as they come my way. But, I daily combat the enemy by daily putting on the armor of God over myself and my husband. Most of my recent attacks have been coming from “misbeliefs” both from my childhood and my marriage. And I combat these untruths, with the truths from God. Through His word. His promises!
    He has given me a word for 2014 – RESTORATION. I don’t know the depth or the height of this restoration, or if it will be the kind that my heart longs for, all I need to know is that it is for my good.

    Reply
  46. Heidi Avatar
    Heidi

    I’m glad I’m not alone here. I have had dreams as well especially lately, am I sensing a pattern here among us? Is it possible the enemy is worried about this topic and how we have armed ourselves?

    Reply
  47. Ian Avatar
    Ian

    Lynn, as you know this is one of my favourite topics. I find it fascinating that many of us (believers) don’t acknowledge there is a supernatural battle going on. Yes we can over-emphasise it but it’s real, it happening all around us at every moment. But we have the victory through Jesus, however, if we let down our guard and take our eyes off Jesus, the enemy awaits to pounce.
    That’s why Paul encourages us to be unceasing in our prayer. Heaven engages when we prayer.
    I’m fascinated by the connection between our flesh and it’s inclination to sin and how Satan’s workers also influence our sin. This is what I’ll be exploring in more detail in the follow up to Angelguard, which is called Wrestling with Shadows.

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  48. Ian Avatar
    Ian

    Yay, Teresa. You go girl. I often do likewise. It’s also why using Scripture is so powerful: get that sword out and slay ’em with God’s Word.

    Reply
  49. Anja Avatar
    Anja

    Lynn, I had to just personally do some spiritual fighting this morning (here on the other side of the pond). I have very important last examinations coming up and it is vital that I pass them. I knew that with work and everything else I only had 2 weeks to study more intensely. As I started last Monday a week ago I fell ill with a cold that would not leave my side for a whole week and still now I feel very tired and worn out and the examinations are just 6 days away. When I read your blog entry it was the answer I was looking for so long. Suddenly I saw the wider picture of my fatigue, constant cold and disability to focus on what I really should do. In fact, I already for a longer time felt that even though I feel God so near in this time something is just trying to pull me down whenever I focus on my study. So I took your advice and anointed the whole house with oil and prayer to command all the evil out of my four walls, the whole house, myself and my husband. I once more invited the Spirit of the Lord to take up the space of our home and turn it into a space of love that glorifies him. I did not feel anything special while doing so but now I feel liberated from a heavy load. AMEN! So I took my bible and just opened it and there the truth of Psalm 125 spoke to me. I just want to share it with all of you.
    Psalm 125
    Those who trust in the Lord are
    like Mount Zion,
    As the mountains surround Jerusalem,
    so the Lord surrounds his people
    both now and for evermore.
    The sceptre of the wicked will not remain
    over the land allotted to the righteous,
    for the righteous might use their hands to to evil.
    Do good, O Lord, to those who are good,
    to those who are upright in heart.
    But those who turn to crooked ways
    the Lord will banish with the evildoers.
    Peace be upon Israel.
    We are like Mount Zion and nothing can shake us because our God, our Lord surrounds us now and forever. He will not allow the evil to stay on righteous ground. So we need not be afraid of any evil that surrounds us because the Lord our God is stronger. On the ground that is allotted to us the wicked will not remain. Our God protects us from it. So let’s keep fight the evil wherever we go and in whatever we do. I pray for all of us that every evil has to flee form all aspects of our lives, marriages, family, relationships and work. Let’s just keep fighting.

    Reply
  50. lisa Avatar
    lisa

    Yes I believe in the kingdom of darkness and demons… 2013 was a year of revelation for me where Eph 6:12 really become a reality to me:
    “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” This verse has really helped me deal more maturely with attacks and persecution from my husband since I know now where it’s really coming from. This also help me understand that I can’t just sit back passively but that I need to be active in the supernatural and take authority in my marriage and home in Jesus name!! Another verse that become a revelation for me was the verse you shared above. 1 Cor 7:12-14 but taking even one verse further (v 15) says “But if the unbeliever leaves, let it be so. The brother or the sister is not bound in such circumstances; God has called us to live in peace.” Honestly, this verse really gave me peace in 2013 when I saw it since I was trying to please God and my husband at the same time which was not bringing me peace at all. This verse really set me free in 2013. Now I do what the Holy Spirit leads me to do without any fear or spirit of intimidation while I let God deal with my husband 🙂

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  51. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    Lovely. Thanks for sharing. I prayed for your success in the exams.

    Reply
  52. marlis Avatar
    marlis

    Thank you so much for providing this Godly space. I was contemplating my husband’s philosophical arguments against God, asking the Lord to empower me to know how to reply when the Holy Spirit spoke to me – A reasonable man would recognise and accept truth when it was presented to him. It follows then that a man who does not is NOT a reasonable man. Following this premise, what is reason then? The power of the mind to think, understand, and form judgements logically. The bible says that the god of this world has blinded his subjects so that they cannot accept truth.
    “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”2Cor4:4. In this the Holy Spirit showed me how to pray effecively for the restoration of the minds(reason) of our unbelieving partners and friends so that they can recognise the truth! Remember the story of the prodigal son who after treating his father abominably and squandering his inheritance “came to his senses” (speaking of a return to right reasoning)and went home where his Father had been patiently waiting to receive him in glorious fashion. Be encouraged sisters. We are on the winning team!

    Reply
  53. Julianne Avatar
    Julianne

    Wow you guys – my Internet has been playing up but I knew I needed to see these posts – for the last few years I have been oppressed at the start of the year – last year I got so much out of the posts – and it’s happening again this year – not sure why particularly the strt of the year (the oppression). First of all was so encouraged to read others have battle dreams – mine aren’t frequent but I have woken my husband (and myself) up saying ‘Jesus’ over and over and over! In the early years I didn’t feel confident of my prayers in my dream but now I feel the victory! I definitely have a battle of the mind – and I think this is exacerbated by always checking how my thoughts would sound to my unbelieving hb – so that even thinking about spiritual warfare can feel a bit unhinged! I think God is giving me the experience of oppression and victory so that I know that I know that I know! My marriage is very strained, my eldest is battling fear and anxiety and my youngest is struggling with unbelief – we are all struggling to see how the Christian life is a better one (btw I wouldn’t want a Godless life for anything despite the battles! ). I like the idea of anointing the windows and doors – and today after about a week of oppressive doubt and confusion I feel I might be able to pray more than just ‘help’ prayers again!

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  54. Anja Avatar
    Anja

    Thanks you so much Teresa. Appreciate it so much!

    Reply
  55. Karen Avatar
    Karen

    This is so great. I really think that believers can be oppressed by demons. I particularly need to keep battling against fear and discouragement. But most of the time I recognize them for what they are – and don’t allow them to take hold.
    I recently read a book (Prepare for War), which suggested that believers can let demons in if they do not guard their spirit. I am amazed at the number of Christians that I hear have read books like Harry Potter. We need to be very careful about what we let into our minds.

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  56. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    God’s wisdom Carmen. He gives us all we need. Amen! I have noticed a HUGE difference from last year to this year by putting on the armour daily!v I have to do it before I get out of bed otherwise I realize I forget,.

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  57. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    Amazed that I would have this book by our fellow Sumite Ian and only be reading it now after having it in my hands for a year and not able to get into it? As it happens at the same time we are led into this study Spiritual Warfare again? And not ONLY these two coincide but I am hearing it on a radio broadcast I listen to faithfully and other venues Warfare are ALSO coming up with the lesson! Oh yeah! God SO needs me in this NOW!
    http://ianacheson.com/angel-guard/
    HIGHLY recommend this book to SEE things in perspective!

    Reply
  58. Lynette Avatar
    Lynette

    “It’s bigger than you can image this day in January but you are key to bringing the Kingdom to earth.”
    Really? I so often don’t feel that way.

    Reply
  59. Pam Avatar
    Pam

    Karla & Heather, I have had the same feelings about wanting my husband to be what “I” think he should be, but I’ve had a change in my heart and in my thinking. For me, I look at his need for salvation and the timing of such in this way. If we both started out on a diet, or needed to quit smoking, it’s very likely we would not arrive at our goals at the same time. Additionally, “encouraging” (also known as nagging) him to speed up his pace never works, he just isn’t ready to be “all in” yet. Sometimes I honestly have to “choose” to love him because the warm fuzzy feeling isn’t always present. I call this Patient Endurance:) Hang in there girls.

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  60. Karla Avatar
    Karla

    Thanks for sharing the visual of wadding up the evil, demanding that it get out, and throwing it out the window. Someone else, or maybe it was you last year, also mentioned doing this, but I had forgotten about it. Thanks for the refresher, and I will be putting it to use!

    Reply
  61. Karla Avatar
    Karla

    Thanks for sharing, Marlis. My husband, on SO many levels, is not a reasonable man. I appreciate the scripture verse!

    Reply
  62. Stacey S Avatar
    Stacey S

    Thanks for sharing how you deal with evil! The enemy uses is topic of spiritual warfare to scare me and dwell in my dreams. I then want to stay quiet about The Lord and not pray out loud for fear I will see a demon or hear something or feel something and I KNOW that is why he scares me…so I won’t scare Him with The Gospel! A friend told me not long ago to get up and dance singing “can’t touch this! Nah nah nah nah!” Having a little comic relief helps wash the presence of The Lord over me.

    Reply
  63. Stacey S Avatar
    Stacey S

    I have too many instances in which demons have attacked. Just the sheer topic of spiritual warfare opens the door for them to fester nasty thoughts! Ever since I was little anytime I was scared my parents always told me say OUT LOUD “devil get a way from me!” “In Jesus’ name amen!” Lynn…your video on taking authority over our homes, schools, communities has really helped me in recent attacks. I also have found in the past year reading and studying my Bible every single day has made me stronger and I am no longer scared of being alone in my house! I sleep better 9 times out of 10. This was a “duh” moment for me! Of course reading and being in The Word daily would help me in attacks! It’s wonderful not to be oppressed. Dr. Neil Anderson’s books victory over darkness and the bondage breaker are great resources. (Though the bondage breaker opened the door for that fear of hearing or feeling a demon back….so it did the opposite for me). Thanks to lynn and Dineen for brining these awesome topics to life! Also thanks to the FBI for not shutting these posts down!

    Reply
  64. Heidi Avatar
    Heidi

    Amen to that! Love DOES conquer all I am now married to a guy that loves me like crazy and I him, with complete and total respect! 🙂 He would never say a hurtful thing, or try to harm me in anyway. He has some struggles and he is working on them only working through them in his thoughts right now, but I feel Gods love on him and there are baby steps every day!! My husband is a believer just not actively following. Cute though he still reads the Christian mag I leave in the bathroom??

    Reply
  65. Sally Avatar
    Sally

    Yes I believe in demons. Many years ago, before I became a Christian, I was involved in the occult. After accepting Christ, I denounced the occult. Demons started appearing in my dreams until I called upon the name of Christ to send them away. Even now, many years later, I pray a cover of protection over my family — children and grandchildren every day. I have been a Christian for over 40 years and am seeing much more activity in the demonic realm.

    Reply
  66. Karla Avatar
    Karla

    Good idea about refreshing wedding day feelings, Joanne. Thanks!

    Reply
  67. Bunnyb1802 Avatar
    Bunnyb1802

    Hmmm, think I’m going to need some boldness to speak it out loud with Mr Man next to me at 2 am. LOL
    Hugs Lynn.

    Reply
  68. Marianne Chandler Avatar
    Marianne Chandler

    New here, first post I’ve read, but very relevant to my life. I do believe in demons, I’ve seen them, and I’ve seen them try to attack me through my husband. i myself have do struggle against the powers and principalities (Eph. 6:12), and it is an ongoing struggle no matter what your husband believes. But I do think it is harder and it is a way the enemy gets at us. What I do, I pray, pray for him, our family, me, and listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I pray over my house, often, and just keep trying to dig in further to God and his word daily.
    I have noticed in the last eight years of our relationship that I have really been tested through my husband, but then I declared that Satan could no longer use him and that because I was sanctified through Jesus and that my husband was sanctified through me that he could no longer try to get at me through him. Spiritual Warfare is the least talked about and least understood subject in the church today, and yet it is so very real and effects our lives daily. All we need to know is that we just have to keep pressing into God and the Holy Spirit really will lead us. If your lost and don’t know what to do, quit trying to do it alone and take it to God.

    Reply
  69. Marianne Chandler Avatar
    Marianne Chandler

    I’ve held back for the last 4 years in talking with my husband about Spiritual Warfare, but then he ended up smack in the middle of it. He doesn’t really believe what I saw, but as time has gone on he is more patient and willing to listen. I came to a crisis a few weeks ago and I just had to tell him. I said, “Look I know you don’t believe in any of this stuff, but I have to share with you what’s going on with me.” He listened patiently, I was surprised, but I felt so much relief. But for two or three weeks before I talked to him I spend hours praying each day, praying his heart would soften, and that the holy spirit would give me the words to say. While he doesn’t believe, he is not antagonistic like he used to be.

    Reply
  70. Marianne Chandler Avatar
    Marianne Chandler

    Thank You! Perfect Scripture!

    Reply
  71. Jen Avatar
    Jen

    I’m late to this conversation this week, but as I”m scrolling down and reading through, I just have to say I was filled with a WOO HOO Victory!! when I saw that was your word for 2014 & had to tell you!! 🙂 Stay Strong Sister, you NEVER Walk Alone!

    Reply
  72. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    Smile. I will use that song.

    Reply
  73. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    Welcome aboard, Marianne. I love that our multi denominational group discusses these issues. We get the benefit of all those perspectives.

    Reply
  74. Jen Avatar
    Jen

    (Welcome Marianne!)
    I totally believe in Demons. Too many “things” have happened to family/friends as I grew up (Not a Christian background at all) and I’m just thinking after reading through everyones posts of the family members of mine that maybe under some Demonic oppression (will be praying more specifically!!) I also have a very strong Christian friend who has been to Haiti a few times & the experience she has told me about regarding Demons are just too real to not believe. I have also heard of experiences and experienced Casting out the Evil in Jesus’ name! One of the ways (besides praying) to keep our home sactified is by leaving the Christian Radio on all day.

    Reply
  75. Victoria Avatar
    Victoria

    I definitely believe that the devil and demons are real. Spiritual warfare is absolutely necessary! We rent a basement and there are three other non-believers who live in the house as well as two young girls. There have been times when I can feel evil spirits descending on the house.. I walk through the basement praying out loud and when I can’t think of anything else to say, I sing worship songs until the feeling of evil is gone.

    Reply
  76. Heidi Avatar
    Heidi

    I have to say fortunately I haven’t had to struggle to understand if there is or isn’t an evil spirit world. I think because I just really never second guessed the matter, simply because; the source from which purity, good, and righteousness comes from is God (the trinity and his angels). Likewise the source from which evil comes from is satan and his evil spirits. And yes I have had a battle or two myself!

    Reply
  77. Ian Avatar
    Ian

    Thank you my friend for the enthusiastic plug. I hope it is encouraging to keep on praying and then praying some more.
    Hugs …

    Reply
  78. Marianne Avatar
    Marianne

    Totally! I actually have no radio, but I leave on the computer and put Vevo on the apple tv! I really missed not having a radio when I moved to London, but technology is so great!!

    Reply

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