The Unseen Foe Behind Rising Evil

Spiritual Warfare

The Unseen Foe Behind Rising Evil

by Berit Kjos, June 2015

"The Bible reveals that the unseen world has rulers and majesties and tremendous beings with whom man can get into communication and be possessed by...”[1] Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest

"...in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils, speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron..." 1 Timothy 4:1-2

We don't hear much about spiritual warfare these days. Most churches seem to ignore the reality of Satan and the evil he inspires. God's warnings about fellowship with the world's alluring thrills doesn't fit the contemporary image of Jesus as a tolerant, easy-going friend.

Since the 18th century's birth of the "Age of Reason," an increasing number of "enlightened" Western leaders and influential "change agents" have tried to discredit the Bible and silence believers. More recently, a vast number of politicians, media masters and educators have joined this war against Biblical truth and Christian values.

No wonder our public schools are becoming bastions of atheism, immorality and -- spreading fast -- the promotion of Islam. Like the persecuted Jews during and after Hitler's holocaust, today's Jews and Christians are facing hatred and rising persecution for standing firm in their faith.

It's no secret that Satan's lies have sparked wars and cruelty through the ages. Ever since Eve chose to follow her own feelings rather than God's wise guidelines, humanity has faced assaults from "the evil one" -- often through his willing pawns. Call him the Devil, Deceiver, Satan, or serpent; it doesn't matter. It's all the same ruthless oppressor:

"...that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, who deceives the whole world..." Revelation 12:9

From the beginning, this invisible fiend has been seeding doubt, depravity, despair and death. Through the ages, he has inspired idolatry, witchcraft, deadly curses and magical arts that were used to control people and corrupt cultures. He lost some ground during America's Christian era, when -- by God's grace -- our nation was relatively free from such dark forces. But our times are changing fast, and once again the captivating forces of evil are mesmerizing vulnerable children as well as adults.
Recently Fox Network launched a new TV series that glorifies Lucifer; marketed with pro-Satan tweets:

"The more subtle side of satanism in Hollywood entertainment is now a thing of the past, as primetime television airs blatantly evil shows like the upcoming Fox drama Lucifer, which glorifies the goings about of the 'lord of hell; after he fictitiously leaves the lake of fire and retires to Los Angeles.
"The premise behind the absurd drama, which is set to release in 2016, centers around so-called 'Lucifer Morningstar' and his new life as the owner of Lux, an upscale nightclub located in the City of Angels.... 'It's only fitting, then, that this modern-day show produced by satanists would portray Lucifer as a type of benevolent god... to take the place of the real God.... Whether you believe what the Bible says or not, this is the clear-as-day implication of this upcoming show that will soon be watched by presumably millions of people."[2]

This world is changing fast, and we must prepare for the challenges ahead. Our children need to know and remember warnings like these:

"There shall not be found among you any one who... practices witchcraft, or who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who casts a spell.... For all that do these things are an abomination unto the Lord..." Deuteronomy 18:10-12

Satan knows well that no nation can maintain true freedom apart from God's moral law. Quenched by propaganda, hedonism and distorted views of God's Truth, the Biblical values that made America kind, generous, honest and successful are now fading fast -- even in churches. Some years ago a youth pastor sent me this conflicting message:

"I am a strong Christian and love the Lord with all my heart. The problem is I really enjoy reading the Harry Potter books and nothing about them conflicts with my spirit..."[3]

A young woman who called herself "a solitary witch" wrote this revealing message:

"I am a Harry Potter fan for several reasons. ... You are not just drawn into the story but into that world. Then through talking about them with fans you fall further and further in love with the characters, you analyze them and worry about them until they feel real to you. Then you have, in a way, become a part of that shared universe, and it is a wonderful place to be."[4]

What a cruel illusion! When a nation turns from God's ways to decadence and imaginary thrills, our Lord withdraws His blessings and protection. And when Satan has his way, calamity reigns. Remember, the evil one rules a hierarchy of like-minded demonic beings:

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers... powers... the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.... Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm." Ephesians 6:12-13

That "evil day" may already be upon us. It's beginning to bring fear and oppression to wayward America -- as it did to the persecuted Christians in the Middle East. And now, with today's massive movement of migrants who -- like some of our leaders -- despise both Jews and Christians, our world is changing faster than ever. What's more, Western countries like America, the UK and Germany are still hosts to unthinkable occultism and secret societies. Some of those empowered servants of darkness may well join tomorrow's tyrants.
Are we prepared to "stand firm" in Jesus Christ, wearing His Armor as we face the challenges ahead? Can we count on our Lord and King to win this battle on behalf of His people?

Yes we can! God always wins -- even when the victory looks more like defeat to us! He is the sovereign Lord and King over all, and His wisdom and long-range plans for our lives far surpass our finite understanding. Everything is under His command:

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

With our limited insights into His heavenly plans, we may be tempted to complain. To resist that lure, we need to trust God, know His Word, and remember His Wonderful Promises. No matter what challenges we face, He is with us - strengthening our faith and training us to endure! For

"...in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us." Romans 8:37
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might. Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the wiles of the devil....
       "Stand therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the flaming missiles of the evil one.
      "And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. ...pray at all times in the Spirit and... be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints..."   Ephesians 6:10-11, 14-18.

1. Oswald Chamber, Oswald Chambers Daily Devotional Bible, p. 652

2. Fox Network launched a new "TV series that glorifies Lucifer; marketed with pro-Satan tweets."

3. This was a personal note from a private person.

4. This was a personal note from a private person.

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