Today’s Readings:
Acts 28:16-20,30-31
Psalm 11:4-5,7
John 21:20-25
As we pray for a fresh outpouring of Pentecost, we need to be aware that the Holy Spirit does not share accommodation with contrary or negative spirits. The Spirit of God cannot abide where the evil one has made his abode. Examine your life and see where you may have given solace to a spirit that is not of God and pray for deliverance from said spirits so that God will once more take full possession of your life.
Here are some spirits to beware of:
Lying spirit —This is a very stubborn tendency in most people to speak things that are untrue about situations or about people. Some go so far as making promises to God and to people with no intention of fulfilling them. Others spread falsehoods to gain sympathy or popularity. Remember that the Devil is called “the father of lies” (John 8:44). May God deliver you from every lying spirit in Jesus’ name.
Divisive spirit —This is the tendency to create conflict between previously agreeing parties so that the one who engenders this division can now have their way with either or both parties. Division is contrary to unity which is the primary indication that God is present. Whether in the family or relationships, division is the first frontal attack that the Devil uses to destroy people. If you find yourself always desiring to isolate people and paint those they love in a bad light, you may be under the influence of a divisive spirit. May God deliver you from this tendency and fill your heart with the peaceful presence of the Holy Spirit through Christ our Lord.
Sensual spirit —Such a spirit always suggests things of a sexual nature to unsuspecting minds. This can be either through their mode of dressing, speaking, acting or suggestions. Beauty and charm are gifts that can be used to lead others to God (Proverbs 31:30; 1 Corinthians 10:31). But when it is used for one’s benefit, it is manipulative, misleading and destructive. May God grant you the grace to use your beauty and charm more constructively and purposefully to lead others to divine beauty and glory through Christ our Lord.
Enabling spirit —An enabler is one whose presence and suggestions can cause others to do something bad. They could make a non-smoker become one. They can lead a sober person into alcoholism. They can encourage a chaste and celibate person to become wayward. Enablers are catalysts. Their gifts are meant to encourage others to pursue virtue, but they choose to misuse their gifts. There are nine ways we share in other people’s sins: By counsel, by command, by consent, by provocation, by praise and flattery, by concealment, by partaking, by silence and by defence of the sinful action. These are all manifestations of an enabling spirit. Enablers mislead others by creating scandal and they will be held to account for it (Luke 17:2). May God deliver you from said spirit and help you use the spirit of wisdom for good in Jesus’ name.
Influencing/manipulating spirit —This is similar to the enabling spirit, but it differs in its artistry. It is the use of the arts (music, drama, written or visual art) to induce others to sin. Those who are under such spiritual influence say, “It is just art”, “It is just music”, “I am only acting”. Yes, you are acting under an evil spirit. The gifts of God are given to us to build up the body of Christ, not for personal enrichment or the mindless purpose of entertainment (Ephesians 4:12). If art and entertainment are done right, they can transform people’s hearts, shape their lives, enlighten them about social ills and make them more conscious of their choices and actions. May God deliver you from influencing others for ill and use your gifts for good in Jesus’ name.
So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”
If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and report to the resident reverend, pastor or priest.
Prayer:
Holy Spirit, forgive me for the many ways I have misled others by my words, actions and the wrongful use of my gifts.
Give me a spirit of prayer and humility that I may please You and abide in Your favour. Amen.
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