Recognizing demonic influences

When was the last time you were really angry with someone? Perhaps a friend broke an important agreement. Or maybe someone wrongly accused you - and no one helped you. This feeling of not being taken seriously can affect us deeply. It's like an invisible blow to the heart. And often - without even realizing it - we withdraw. First out of disappointment, then out of defiance. Suddenly there is a wall of silence, resentment and inner coldness.

What began as an insult becomes an inner prison. And the longer we carry these injuries around with us, the heavier they become. Like an invisible rucksack that paralyzes us - or like fine sand under our feet that makes our steps laborious until we come to a complete standstill.

Sometimes it's the little things: a mocking remark from a colleague in the office, a comment from our parents that stays with us to this day. Words that tell us: You are not enough. You are wrong. And we ask ourselves: Why can't I let go of this?

The Bible shows that there are forces that are more than human weakness. Powers that want to darken our hearts. Paul writes in Ephesians 6:12: “Our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the powers of darkness.”

These invisible attacks target our innermost being - to sow mistrust, destroy relationships and alienate us from God. But we are not helpless against these forces. For Jesus came to set us free.

In Mark 1, in the middle of the church service, a possessed man confronts him - loud, aggressive, full of torment. But Jesus remains calm. No spectacle, no magic. Just one clear word: “Be silent and come out!” And the demon has to leave. Silence returns. Peace.

What happened back then is still true today: where Jesus is, the darkness must give way. Perhaps there are also thoughts, hurts or dark influences in your life that are holding you back. But Jesus sees you. He calls you to freedom. You can come to him - with everything that is difficult and experience how his light dispels even the deepest darkness.

Next Step: Ask God to show you where demonic influences are at work in your life and thank Him for opening your eyes to the patterns of unseen struggles. If you like, ask God for the protection of His spiritual “armor” from Ephesians 6, imagining yourself consciously putting on each piece.