Conquer Your Demons Billy Graham's Guide to Strength and Resilience

We live in a world that is not only physical but spiritual. There's more going on around us than meets the eye. The battle for your soul is real, and it's happening right now as we go about our daily lives—working, eating, spending time with family.

There is a war being fought in the unseen realm. The Bible makes it clear; we are not wrestling against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers of darkness. We may not always see it, but we are surrounded by spiritual forces—both good and evil—that influence everything we do.

Now, you might be wondering, "How do I recognize this spiritual battle? " It's a good question, because if we don't know the signs, we can easily be deceived. The enemy is cunning, and he is at work not only in the world at large, but sometimes even in the lives of those around us.

The Word of God warns us to be vigilant, to stay awake, and to recognize the enemy's tactics. And let me tell you, Satan's goal is clear: he wants to steal your peace, kill your joy, and destroy your relationship with God. But here's the good news: Jesus has already won the victory!

We are more than conquerors through Christ. So, as we walk through this world, it's important to understand that there are signs—clear signs—that can help us discern when evil is at work in someone's life. Today, we're going to take a look at six signs that might point to something far deeper than just human weakness or wrongdoing, and we need to be aware of these signs because the stakes are too high.

Our spiritual health, our families, and even our communities are all affected. There's an old saying: the devil is a master of disguise. And make no mistake, he has perfected the art of deception.

His goal is simple: to lead you away from the truth and into darkness. Deception is one of the most dangerous weapons in the enemy's arsenal. It's subtle, it's sneaky, and it's not always obvious.

But when it enters someone's life, it takes root deep in the heart. You see, the devil doesn't show up with a pitchfork and horns; no, he appears as an angel of light, whispering lies that seem right, that sound good, and at first may even feel true. The Bible warns us in 2 Corinthians 11:14 that Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.

And that's how deception works: it doesn't come with a warning sign; it slips in unnoticed, distorting the truth just enough to lead us astray. Those who are under the influence of demonic forces are often the ones who speak half-truths, twist reality, and try to manipulate the minds of others. These individuals, you see, have a way of twisting words.

They can take something pure, something holy, and distort it just enough that it becomes something dangerous. Their words don't carry the weight of truth; they carry the weight of manipulation. What may begin as an innocent conversation can quickly turn into a battle for your soul.

And here's the thing: deception doesn't just confuse the mind; it traps the heart. It leads people to believe they are walking in the light when in reality they are stumbling in the darkness. And if we're not careful, we can become so caught up in these lies that we lose sight of the truth.

The truth is found in the Word of God, and the Spirit of God helps us recognize what is true and what is false. So when you encounter someone whose life is marked by constant twisting of the truth, whose words don't match their actions, or whose intentions are hidden behind a mask of falsehood, beware! The devil is at work, and he's using deception to pull people away from God's will.

We must always remember that the truth will set us free, but lies will bind us. As we continue, keep your heart open and ask God for discernment, because recognizing deception is critical for our spiritual health. Have you ever noticed how certain people seem to bring chaos wherever they go?

It's like a storm follows them—a cloud of confusion that disrupts everything they touch. The Bible tells us that God is not the author of confusion but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33). Wherever the Spirit of God is, there is peace, order, and clarity.

But when someone is under the influence of demonic forces, their lives are often marked by constant turmoil and disruption. Chaos is their constant companion; their relationships are broken, their work is unsteady, and their homes are filled with strife. It's as if they are the epicenter of a spiritual earthquake, and the aftershocks are felt by everyone around them.

Oh, the enemy's goal is to destabilize your life, to create confusion, and to rob you of your peace. And he does this through those who are open to his influence. You might think it's just bad luck or that they are just going through a rough patch.

But let me tell you, when there's a pattern of continual disorder in someone's life, it's often a sign that something deeper is at work. These individuals seem to stir up conflict, stir up strife, and seem unable to live in harmony with others. They bring turmoil into communities, families, and friendships, and everywhere they go, they leave a wake of unresolved conflict.

Now, let me be clear: we all face trials and moments of difficulty in life. But when you see someone who consistently brings chaos, who thrives in disorder, and who cannot seem to find peace or help others find peace, there's more happening here than just human struggle. This isn't just about personality clashes or misunderstandings; this is spiritual warfare at its core.

A person influenced by demonic forces might feel that they are in control, but in reality, they are instruments of chaos. Division, keeping the fires of confusion and conflict burning in those around them, creates environments where peace is impossible and unity is just a distant dream. As believers, we are called to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9), but when someone's life is marked by constant chaos, we must recognize the hand of the enemy trying to steal away the peace that Christ offers.

We must guard our hearts and our communities against the destructive force of division. You've heard it said before, "The truth will set you free," but what happens when someone continually resists the truth? What happens when they reject what is good, right, and pure, and instead turn their back on the very words that can save them?

The word of God is the foundation of our faith, the living and active sword that penetrates deep into our hearts, bringing light into the darkness. It’s the truth we need to guide us through this life. Yet one of the clearest signs of demonic influence in someone's life is their persistent resistance to the word of God.

People who are under the sway of darkness find the word of God uncomfortable, unappealing, or even offensive. When they hear the Bible's message—whether it's about salvation, holiness, repentance, or the love of God—they reject it, they mock it, they argue against it, they try to twist it to fit their own desires, or completely dismiss it as irrelevant. Jesus said in John 8:47, “Whoever belongs to God hears what God says.

” When someone continually rejects the truth of God's word, it's a warning sign that their heart is hardened and they're under the influence of a spirit that does not want them to experience the freedom and healing found in Christ. What's even more troubling is that this resistance to the word often doesn't look like outright rejection at first. It can come in the form of subtle resistance, twisting scripture to justify sin, selectively choosing parts of the Bible to embrace while ignoring others, or claiming to be spiritual while completely disregarding God's commands.

This kind of behavior leads people away from the life-giving truth of the gospel and ultimately away from God Himself. The power of the word is undeniable. It has the power to convict, to heal, and to set us free.

But when someone continually turns away from it, when they refuse to be moved by its call, it's a sure sign that something more than just a personal preference is at play; it's a spiritual issue. If you are walking with the Lord, you will find yourself hungering for His word. But if you encounter someone who resists it at every turn, whose life is marked by avoidance, denial, or rejection of the truth of scripture, beware—the enemy is at work in their heart, blinding them to the life-changing power of God's truth.

Have you ever encountered someone who just can't seem to feel remorse for their actions? Someone who does wrong, hurts others, and yet never seems to feel the weight of their sin? One of the clearest signs that someone may be under demonic influence is a profound lack of conviction or repentance in their life.

When a person is so hardened in their heart that they are no longer moved by the Holy Spirit's call to change, it's a sign that something is deeply wrong. The Bible says in Romans 2:4 that the goodness of God leads us to repentance. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8), and it is this conviction that draws and calls us to our knees before God, confessing our sins and asking for His mercy.

However, when someone is under the influence of darkness, they no longer respond to this conviction. They may ignore it, push it aside, or become numb to it altogether. This lack of conviction is not just a sign of stubbornness; it's a spiritual condition.

The enemy works to desensitize people's hearts, to dull their conscience, so that they can live in sin without the weight of guilt or remorse. People under this influence may do terrible things yet show no sorrow, no regret, and no desire to change. Their hearts have become calloused and their conscience seared, as Paul describes in 1 Timothy 4:2.

What is especially alarming is that this lack of repentance is often accompanied by an attitude of pride. Rather than humbling themselves and seeking God's forgiveness, they justify their actions, deflect blame, and refuse to take responsibility for the harm they cause. They've become blind to their need for grace.

But let me tell you this: conviction and repentance are gifts from God. They are the doorways to healing and restoration. When someone no longer feels the weight of their sin, it's a sign that the enemy has established a stronghold in their heart, and the longer they stay in that state, the harder it becomes for them to turn back.

As believers, we must pray for those whose hearts have become hardened. We must pray for God to break through their pride and bring them to the place of repentance where healing and forgiveness can begin, because without repentance, there is no salvation; without conviction, there is no transformation. Have you ever met someone who seems to want to control every situation, every conversation, and every person they come in contact with?

They don't just want to influence; they want to dominate. One of the most dangerous signs of demonic influence is a deep-seated desire for control and manipulation. People who are under the sway of darkness often aren't content with simply leading or guiding others; they want to dominate.

They crave power, they thirst for control, and they will stop at nothing to bend others to their will. This is exactly how the enemy works. Satan's goal is not just to deceive or confuse; he wants to control.

In the Garden of Eden, he didn't just. . .

suggest to Eve that she could eat the fruit. He subtly manipulated her into questioning God's word and ultimately led her to make a decision that would bring ruin to all of humanity. Control is at the heart of the enemy's tactics.

A person who desires to control others doesn't just want to lead; they want to manipulate people's thoughts, actions, and decisions for their own benefit. They use fear, guilt, and intimidation to bend others to their will. They may even use charm or flattery to mask their true intentions.

Their goal is simple: to keep others in a state of submission to them, to feed their own sense of power and self-importance. But make no mistake, this spirit of manipulation is not of God. Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26).

True leadership in God's kingdom is marked by humility, by the desire to serve others, not to control them. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to lead with love, not with force. But the spirit of control and manipulation is the direct opposite; it seeks to crush, to dominate, to manipulate, and to divide.

If you find yourself constantly battling with someone who seeks to control every situation, who is always maneuvering others to get their way, who uses others as pawns in their own game, it's a red flag. This is not normal behavior; this is a spirit of domination at work, and it's a sure sign that the enemy is behind the scenes pulling the strings. As believers, we are called to live in freedom, to walk in the peace that comes from Christ, not under the heavy yoke of control.

“Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty” (2 Corinthians 3:17). When you encounter someone whose life is marked by manipulation and control, pray for their release from the enemy's grip and for God to bring peace, truth, and freedom into their heart. There's a saying that goes, “What you do speaks so loudly, I can't hear what you're saying.

” Have you ever met someone who says one thing but their actions tell a completely different story? One of the most powerful and deceptive signs of demonic influence is hypocrisy— the act of pretending to be something you are not, of saying one thing and living another. These individuals will often speak with spiritual words, with high moral ideals, but their actions betray their true nature.

They wear a mask portraying themselves as righteous, yet underneath, they are driven by evil intentions. Hypocrisy is at the core of Satan's character; he is the father of lies, and deception is his native language. Jesus was clear when he confronted the Pharisees, calling them “whitewashed tombs,” appearing clean on the outside but full of dead bones on the inside (Matthew 23:27).

The enemy loves to promote this kind of false righteousness, leading people to believe they can be close to God by outward appearances while their hearts are far from Him. Someone influenced by demonic forces often uses their outward appearance—whether it's their reputation, their church attendance, or their social position—to hide their true motives. They will speak of kindness, but they harbor bitterness.

They will talk about love, but they spread division. They will quote scripture but live in rebellion to God's commands. This hypocrisy leads others astray because the mask they wear makes it difficult to discern the true nature of their character.

You see, the enemy wants us to be deceived, and he uses the tool of hypocrisy to accomplish this. If a person consistently talks about the things of God but their life shows no fruit of the Spirit—no love, no joy, no peace—there is a clear contradiction. And where there is contradiction, there is confusion; and where there is confusion, there is a foothold for the enemy to work.

As believers, we are called to be authentic, to live our faith with sincerity and truth. Jesus Himself said, “Let your yes be yes, and your no be no” (Matthew 5:37). There is no room for double-mindedness in the kingdom of God.

When we live with integrity, when our actions match our words, we reflect Christ's truth to the world. But when we embrace hypocrisy, we reflect the enemy's lies. If you encounter someone whose life is marked by hypocrisy, whose actions contradict their words, it's a dangerous sign.

They may not be fully aware of it, but the enemy has a stronghold in their life, and their deception is leading others into darkness. And for us, as believers, it's essential to walk in the light, to be true to the word of God, and to remove the masks we may wear. Only then can we truly be a light in a dark world.

Have you ever been in a conversation where the words coming out of someone's mouth are so vile, so disrespectful, that it almost feels like they're attacking everything holy? Unholy speech is one of the clearest signs that demonic forces are at work in a person's life. Jesus said in Matthew 12:34, “For out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.

” What is in the heart inevitably comes out in our words, and when someone's speech is consistently filled with blasphemy, profanity, or a disregard for the sacred, it's a strong indication that there is a spiritual battle going on in their soul. Blasphemy, in particular, is the ultimate insult to God. It is the deliberate act of mocking or speaking ill of God, His word, His work, and His people.

Those under demonic influence are often driven to speak against what is holy, to tear down what God has established, and to make light of that which should be revered. Think about the times when people mock God, use His name in vain, or belittle the things of faith. You may hear them making jokes about the gospel, mocking the church, or.

. . Even belittling the power of prayer, the spirit behind these words is not just a human attitude of cynicism; it's a demonic spirit that seeks to undermine the authority of God and to spread lies about His goodness and power.

This kind of speech isn't always overt or extreme, but it can be subtle, slipping into casual conversations, making light of holy things, speaking sarcastically about prayer, or diminishing the power of God's Word. When someone's words consistently dishonor God, it's a serious warning sign that their heart is under the influence of darkness. The enemy's primary strategy is to distort the truth.

If he can get someone to blaspheme, to mock, or to speak evil of God and His work, he can harden their heart even further, drawing them away from the truth of the gospel and the life-giving power of God. The Bible warns us in James 3:6 that the tongue is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body; it corrupts the whole body. Words have power: power to build up or power to destroy.

As believers, we are called to speak with grace, to edify one another, and to declare the goodness of God with our mouths. Our speech should reflect the love and truth of Christ. But when you encounter someone whose words consistently bring dishonor to God, whether through blasphemy, mockery, or casual disregard for what is sacred, it's clear that something spiritual is at play.

The enemy uses unholy speech as a tool to harden hearts and lead others into confusion and destruction. So, if you find yourself or someone else trapped in this pattern of speaking ill of holy things, take a moment to reflect. This is not just poor character; it is spiritual warfare.

Pray for a heart of reverence, that our words might honor God and lead others toward His light, not away from it. Have you ever noticed how some people seem to be under a constant heavy burden, a weight that goes beyond just physical illness or emotional struggle? It's almost as if something oppressive is holding them down.

One of the most disturbing signs of demonic influence is the presence of unnatural affliction or oppression. It's not just a temporary struggle or a moment of hardship; it's an ongoing battle that seems to have no clear cause, no clear resolution. It's a weight, a heaviness that cannot be explained by natural means.

It might manifest as constant depression, overwhelming fear, or inexplicable physical illness that medical treatments can't explain. The Bible clearly teaches us that demons can cause affliction. In Luke 13:11 and 16, Jesus encounters a woman who had been crippled by a spirit for 18 years.

She was physically bent over, unable to straighten up—not because of a medical condition, but because of a demonic influence. Jesus, moved with compassion, cast the spirit out of her, and immediately she was healed. Her suffering was not natural; it was the result of spiritual oppression.

This kind of unnatural affliction can show up in different ways: chronic illness with no clear cause, mental torment that seems beyond one's control, or emotional distress that overwhelms a person no matter what they try to do. While many illnesses and struggles can have natural causes, there are times when the enemy uses sickness, pain, and oppression to torment individuals and keep them in bondage. It's important to remember that not every sickness is caused by demonic influence, but when you see someone who is continually weighed down by something that doesn't have a clear natural cause, it's time to discern whether this might be a spiritual issue.

Satan's aim is to steal, kill, and destroy, and he often uses sickness, fear, and oppression as tools to break a person's spirit and draw them away from God. If you encounter someone who is consistently oppressed by darkness, whether through physical suffering, mental distress, or emotional bondage, you must recognize the spiritual battle they are facing. It's not always something that can be fixed through mere willpower or conventional means; it requires spiritual intervention.

We, as believers, have been given authority in Christ to speak healing and deliverance over the works of the enemy. Jesus came to give us life and life more abundantly (John 10:10); He came to set the captives free. If you are facing this kind of oppression, or if you see it in someone you love, know that God has power over every demonic force.

We must pray with faith, believing that God's power can break the chains of affliction, and we must stand firm against the oppression that seeks to steal our joy and peace. Have you ever been in the presence of someone who just seems to recoil from anything good, pure, or light? They shy away from kindness, refuse to embrace joy, and avoid anything that shines with truth and righteousness.

One of the most telling signs of demonic influence is a strong aversion to light and goodness. The Bible tells us that the world lies in darkness and that those who reject the light of Christ are living in spiritual blindness. In John 3:19, it says, "This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people love darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

" People who are under the influence of the enemy are often repelled by anything that is pure, anything that exposes their darkness, and anything that calls them to righteousness. This aversion manifests in many ways; it may look like a person avoiding conversations about faith or refusing to engage in acts of kindness. It may be someone who resists or mocks the joy and peace of believers or someone who avoids any environment where goodness, love, and truth are being actively lived out.

In fact, when these individuals find themselves around people who embody light and goodness, whether through acts of generosity, kindness, or the preaching of the gospel. . .

They feel comfortable, even hostile. It’s not just a preference for darkness; it’s an active rejection of the light that exposes the lies and sin in their life. It’s a spiritual blindness that keeps them trapped in the darkness of their own heart, and they fear the light because it threatens the power the enemy holds over them.

Jesus warned that those who reject the light are those who have evil deeds; they do not want exposed. This aversion can also manifest in the form of anger or resistance when confronted with truth. When someone becomes defensive or hostile at the mere mention of God, or when they resist hearing about anything good and pure, it’s a warning sign—they are running from the very thing that can set them free.

They’re rejecting the light that offers them healing, transformation, and salvation. This is the power of spiritual blindness at work. But here’s the truth: the light of Jesus Christ is greater than any darkness.

He is the light of the world (John 8:12), and no darkness can overcome Him. The Bible tells us in 1 John 1:5 that God is light; in Him, there is no darkness at all. When we are walking in the light, we are walking in truth, and we are reflecting the goodness of God.

And while the enemy may use this aversion to create division, we can trust that the light of Christ is more powerful than any darkness that tries to resist. If you encounter someone who constantly recoils from goodness, who mocks light and joy, or who can’t stand to be in the presence of anything pure, it’s a sign that the enemy is at work. Pray for that person; pray that the light of Christ will break through their darkness and that they will see and experience the love and truth that can only be found in Him.

Have you ever encountered someone who seems to intentionally drive a wedge between people, stir up division, and isolate themselves from community? It’s as though they thrive in the midst of broken relationships and separation. A powerful sign of demonic influence is the urge to isolate and divide.

The enemy's goal is to destroy relationships, cause disunity, and keep people separated from one another and from the body of Christ. The Bible is clear that we are stronger together, united in love and faith. But the devil, the father of lies, works tirelessly to isolate individuals, sow discord, and foster division.

1 Peter 5:8 warns, "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. " Lions often prey on animals that stray from the pack—those that isolate themselves.

This same principle applies spiritually. When someone becomes isolated, either physically, emotionally, or spiritually, they become more vulnerable to attack. The enemy works by creating a wedge between individuals, whether in families, friendships, churches, or communities, and isolates them from the support and strength of the body of Christ.

But the enemy doesn’t just isolate individuals; he divides groups and communities. He stirs up gossip, falsehoods, misunderstandings, and encourages unforgiveness. People influenced by demonic forces often seem to have an uncanny ability to create strife, making it difficult for people to reconcile or live in harmony.

In families, this may look like constant arguments and unresolved conflicts. In churches, it may look like division and factions. Wherever there is a consistent underlying spirit of division, it’s a clear indication that something spiritual is at work.

In contrast, God calls us to live in unity. Ephesians 4:3 tells us to make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. The Bible emphasizes unity, love, and reconciliation.

Jesus Himself prayed for His followers in John 17:21, saying, "That all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. " The enemy seeks to distort this, encouraging a spirit of separation that weakens the body of Christ and leads individuals into spiritual isolation. If you notice someone constantly pushing people away, stirring up conflict, or creating divisions, it’s a sign of spiritual opposition.

The devil thrives in division, but the Holy Spirit is the spirit of unity, peace, and reconciliation. We, as believers, are called to tear down walls of division and build bridges of love—not just in our families and churches, but in every area of our lives. So if you encounter a spirit of division, whether in someone you know or within a community, take action.

Pray for unity, bind up the spirit of division in the name of Jesus, and stand firm in the love of Christ that unites us all. God's desire is for His people to dwell together in peace, not to be divided by the schemes of the enemy. Have you ever seen someone whose temper flares up in an instant, where a small spark ignites an uncontrollable fire?

A person who seems to be perpetually angry, full of rage, and unable to control their emotions? Uncontrolled anger and rage can be powerful indicators of demonic influence in a person's life. While anger itself is a natural emotion, when it becomes a constant, explosive, and destructive force, it reveals a deeper issue—one that may be linked to spiritual oppression.

The Bible warns us about anger, particularly unchecked anger. In Ephesians 4:26-27, it says, “In your anger, do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.

” When anger is not addressed properly, it gives the enemy an opportunity to take root and wreak havoc. The devil uses uncontrolled anger to destroy relationships, disrupt peace, and keep people in a constant state of emotional turmoil. Someone influenced by this demonic spirit of rage may lash out unexpectedly, showing a level of aggression that seems disproportionate to the situation at hand.

They may have difficulty reconciling their anger, often holding on to grudges, resentment, or a quick temper. This kind of unchecked rage is like a gateway for the enemy to stir up confusion, bitterness, and violence. What makes uncontrolled anger particularly dangerous is its ability to create a cycle.

The person may feel anger rising within them, then react impulsively, which only fuels their emotions and deepens their sense of injustice. The anger doesn't dissipate; it grows stronger, leading to more frequent outbursts. It's a vicious cycle, one that seems impossible to break without spiritual intervention.

The enemy loves to use anger to divide families, communities, and even entire churches. People under the influence of this spirit may be quick to lash out at others, accusing, blaming, or shaming them without cause. Relationships are fractured, and the peace of God is disrupted.

This spirit of rage keeps people from experiencing the forgiveness, peace, and reconciliation that God desires for His children. But here's the truth: God does not want us to live in this kind of bondage. In James 1:20, we are reminded that human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.

While we may feel anger, we are called to deal with it in a way that honors God—through prayer, confession, and seeking reconciliation. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome the spirit of rage and replace it with peace, kindness, and self-control. If you see someone who is consistently overcome by anger or if you yourself struggle with uncontrollable rage, it's essential to recognize this as a spiritual issue.

The enemy is using anger as a tool to keep you in bondage, but through Jesus Christ, there is power to break free. Pray for healing, for peace, and for the Holy Spirit to help you regain control of your emotions, replacing anger with a heart full of love and self-control. Have you ever met someone who seems to constantly be on the edge, someone who's driven by an urge to hurt themselves or destroy the things they love, as if they can't escape the grip of despair?

A disturbing and often heart-wrenching sign of demonic influence is a desire for destruction or self-harm. This can manifest in a variety of ways, whether through self-destructive behaviors like addiction, reckless living, or literal acts of self-harm, or through a deep, pervasive feeling that life isn't worth living. This destructive urge is not just a mental health issue; it is often a spiritual one, driven by the enemy's desire to steal, kill, and destroy.

In John 10:10, Jesus contrasts the work of the enemy with His own mission: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life and have it to the full. " The enemy seeks to rob people of their joy, their hope, and ultimately their lives.

Demonic forces prey on those who are vulnerable, whispering lies into their minds, convincing them that they have no worth, no future, and that destruction is the only way out. Self-harm or destructive behavior can sometimes be a person's way of coping with the unbearable pain they feel inside. Whether it's the trauma of past experiences, emotional pain, or a deep spiritual emptiness, the enemy works tirelessly to convince them that the only way to relieve their suffering is through self-destruction.

These are lies from the pit of hell. The Bible tells us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14) and that our lives have great value in God's eyes. Yet the enemy works to distort this truth and convinces individuals to turn on themselves.

A person under the grip of this demonic influence may feel trapped, overwhelmed by despair, unable to see a way out. This spirit of destruction doesn't just aim to end a life physically, but it works to destroy hope, to break the spirit, and to separate individuals from the truth of God's love and redemption. It leads people to believe that their pain is beyond healing and that there is no escape from their suffering.

But let me speak a word of truth to you: no matter how deep the despair may be, there is hope in Christ. Jesus came to bring healing and restoration. In Isaiah 61:3, it says that He came to provide for those who grieve, to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.

God desires to heal broken hearts and set the captives free from the destructive power of the enemy. If you or someone you know is struggling with self-destructive thoughts or behaviors, don't ignore the spiritual component. This is a battle for life and peace.

We must pray for deliverance, for God to break the chains of despair, and for the person to experience the truth of their worth in Christ. God has a plan for their life, a future full of hope, and it's time to reject the lies of the enemy and embrace the healing power of Jesus. Have you ever met someone who can never seem to submit to authority?

Whether it's at work, in their family, or even in the church, no matter who is in charge, they resist, rebel, and fight against anyone in a position of leadership. A consistent desire to rebel against authority is another sign that demonic forces may be at work in someone's life. The Bible teaches us that God has established authority in every sphere of life, whether in the home, the workplace, or within the church.

In Romans 13:1, it says, "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. " The enemy, however, works tirelessly to sow seeds of rebellion, making people resist authority in all its forms, which ultimately leads to chaos and disorder. and destruction.

Rebellion against authority is one of the primary characteristics of the Devil Himself. See, Lucifer, who was once an angel of light, rebelled against God's sovereignty and was cast out of Heaven (Isaiah 14:12-15). This rebellious spirit is what fuels much of the conflict and division we see today, whether in our families, our workplaces, or in our communities.

When someone is constantly resisting authority—whether it's their parents, their boss, or even the leaders in their heart—it's a clear indicator that the enemy is influencing their life. This resistance to authority doesn't always look like outright defiance; it can be an attitude of cynicism, constant complaining, a refusal to follow reasonable rules, or an unwillingness to respect leadership in the church. It might manifest as rejecting biblical teaching, undermining pastors or spiritual leaders, or questioning godly direction at every turn.

In families, it can show up as children or adults who refuse to honor their parents or who consistently rebel against family rules. The point is this: this is not just a mere personality flaw; it is a spirit at work trying to dismantle order and disrupt peace. The enemy knows that if he can sow rebellion, he can destroy unity and harmony; he can turn people against one another and against the authority God has established.

When we resist the authority that God has placed in our lives, we're not just rebelling against people; we are resisting God's will. In 1 Samuel 15:23, the Bible says, "For rebellion is like the sin of divination and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. " Rebellion against authority is serious, and it's a tactic of the enemy to keep people from walking in obedience to God's plan.

But here's the truth: God is a God of order, not confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). He has placed authority structures in our lives for our good and for His glory. When we align ourselves with God's order, we align ourselves with His blessing and protection.

But when we resist authority, we open ourselves up to spiritual attacks. If you encounter someone who is always fighting against authority, or if you find yourself struggling to respect the authority God has placed over you, it's a sign that the enemy is trying to disrupt God's plan for your life. We must pray for humility, for the strength to submit to the authorities God has put in place, and for the wisdom to honor Him in all things.

Have you ever encountered someone who seems to live in a world of falsehoods, where nothing they say seems trustworthy and the truth always feels just out of reach? It's as though they are trapped in a web of lies, unable to see the light of truth. A life marked by deception and lies is perhaps one of the clearest signs that someone is under the influence of demonic forces.

Satan is described as the father of lies in John 8:44, and he has been deceiving humanity since the very beginning. In the Garden of Eden, the enemy's chief weapon is the distortion of truth—twisting it into half-truths and lies designed to keep people from seeing God's reality and His will for their lives. People under demonic influence often live in a cloud of lies.

They may lie about their past, their present, and even their future. These lies are not just small, harmless exaggerations; they are deeply embedded falsehoods that cause confusion and division. It can manifest as a pattern of deceit in relationships, in business, or even in their own self-perception.

They may believe lies about their worth, their value, and their purpose, and as a result, they may make choices that keep them trapped in darkness. This constant deception is a tool the enemy uses to lead people away from the truth of the gospel and the freedom found in Christ. In 2 Corinthians 11:14, the Bible warns that Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.

The devil is not always obvious; he doesn't always show up as something dark or evil. Sometimes his lies come wrapped in something that seems attractive, good, or even holy. But beneath the surface, his goal is to lead people away from God's truth and into a life of confusion and destruction.

The lies that people under demonic influence believe can range from blatant falsehoods to subtle distortions of reality. Someone may lie about their intentions, their actions, or their motivations all the while creating a narrative that keeps them in control and separates them from the truth. The deeper they go into deception, the harder it becomes for them to recognize the truth, making them more susceptible to the enemy's lies.

The Bible tells us that the truth will set you free (John 8:32), and the truth is found in Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). When we walk in truth, we are walking in the light of God's presence, and we are free from the lies of the enemy. But when we live in deception, we remain trapped, held captive by the very lies that seek to destroy us.

If you encounter someone who seems to live in a constant state of deception, or if you find yourself entangled in lies, it's time to seek the truth. The enemy wants to keep you in confusion and darkness, but God desires to bring you into the light. Pray for the Holy Spirit to expose the lies and bring you into the freedom of truth.

God's truth will always set you free, and when you stand in that truth, the lies of the enemy lose their power. As we come to the end of this message, I want to remind you of something incredibly important: while these signs may indicate the presence of demonic influence, they are not signs of hopelessness. No matter how deep the darkness may seem, the light of Christ is always there.

Greater, no matter how strong the enemy's grip may feel, God's power is stronger still. Jesus came to set the captives free, to heal the brokenhearted, and to deliver us from every work of the enemy. The truth is, we are all in a spiritual battle, and it's a battle that's been going on long before any of us took our first breath.

The enemy's aim is clear: to steal, kill, and destroy. But God's plan for your life is different; He wants to give you life—abundant life, filled with His peace, joy, and victory. And the beautiful thing is, He has already won the ultimate victory through Jesus Christ on the cross.

When we talk about these signs—the behaviors, the patterns, the darkness that can come from demonic influence—we are not talking about something that has power over us if we are in Christ. No, in Christ we have been given authority over all the works of the enemy. In Luke 10:19, Jesus says, "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.

" The enemy has no dominion over those who belong to Jesus Christ. I want to encourage you today, whether you are dealing with these signs in your own life or in someone else's. Know that deliverance is possible; freedom is available.

God's power is greater than any demonic force. You have the authority through the name of Jesus to rebuke the works of the enemy and claim the victory that Christ has already won. When we recognize these signs, we are called to pray, to seek God's intervention, and to stand firm in the truth.

We are called to love, to extend grace, and to show the transforming power of the Gospel to those trapped in darkness. Remember, no one is beyond redemption; no one is too far gone for God's grace to reach. The enemy may try to destroy, but Jesus came to restore.

So as we leave today, let us be vigilant—not in fear, but in the confidence that God is with us. He is our strength, our shield, and our deliverer. We can stand firm against the works of the enemy because the battle belongs to the Lord, and He has already given us the victory.

Let's pray for those who need deliverance; let's stand in the gap for those under spiritual oppression, and let's walk in the freedom that Christ offers. We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us, and we are equipped to defeat the enemy in every area of our life. So take heart, stand strong, and remember, no matter what darkness tries to surround you, the light of Christ will always break through.