Deuteronomy 18:15-20
Psalm 95:1-2, 6-9
1 Corinthians 7:32-35
Mark 1:21-28
He commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him. (Mark 1:27)
So many people—especially those living in the West—have dismissed the existence of evil spirits. But that’s a big mistake. Evil spirits are real, and they are always at work, trying to destroy our faith and the Church as a whole.
Now, few people are actually possessed by evil spirits, but most of us experience what we may call spiritual harassment from them. Think of how Peter tried to convince Jesus not to go to the cross, only to hear him reply, “Get behind me, Satan!” (Matthew 16:23). Clearly, Peter wasn’t possessed. Still, the devil had gotten into his mind and suggested thoughts that were contrary to God’s plan.
Satan wants to confuse and mislead us, just as he did to Peter. So how do we guard our minds? By trying our best to agree with Jesus. Of course, we should always feel free to ask questions, just as Mary did when she asked the angel, “How can this be?” (Luke 1:34). That’s a lot different from fighting Jesus or going against what he clearly tells us. When we think we know better than Jesus, we are opening ourselves up to the devil’s harassment.
Peter learned how to overcome this harassment, and so can we. The first thing we need to do is acknowledge that it is going on and take action. So when you wake up each morning, ask the Lord to protect you and your loved ones. Call on the name of Jesus, pray to St. Michael the Archangel, or simply mark yourself with the sign of the cross.
Second, keep building your faith. Soak yourself in the Scriptures. Read upbuilding spiritual books. Focus on Jesus during Mass. Nothing helps us stay clear-minded more than faith.
Finally, believe that Jesus rules the universe. He wants to help you be alert to the divisive whispers of the devil. Trust that Jesus, who lives in you, is far stronger than “the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).
“Lord, help me to stand firm and resist the devil’s temptations today.”~WAU
