Introduction
Welcome back, astute readers! If you’re just tuning in, our ongoing series is an in-depth exploration of demonization and curses. We kicked off the series by examining Stage 1, Infestation. If you missed it, [catch up here]. Today, we’re leveling up to delve into Stage 2—Oppression.
The Puzzling Realm of Oppression: A Biblical Perspective
Oppression takes us a step further into the sinister realm of demonic activity. Here, physical disturbances start to manifest in various aspects of daily life. It’s crucial to understand that while these happenings can also be part of the typical human experience, their sudden or extreme nature could be a spiritual red flag.
Scriptural Support:
In Job 1:13-19 (KJV), Job experiences a series of misfortunes that could be interpreted as signs of demonic oppression, though they were tests of his faithfulness.
Examples of Oppression:
1. Sleep Disturbances: Interrupted sleep, nightmares, and insomnia could indicate more than just stress.
*Scriptural Support*: Psalm 4:8 (KJV) speaks of the peace that comes from God alone, contrasting the lack of peace in oppression.
2. Major Depression or Anxiety: Persistent feelings of hopelessness and intense fear.
*Scriptural Support*: Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV) advises against being anxious and highlights the peace that surpasses all understanding.
3. Chronic Illnesses: Unexplained or untreatable illnesses might be signs.
*Scriptural Support*: The woman bent double for 18 years in Luke 13:11-13 (KJV) was said to be oppressed by a spirit.
4. Severe financial and employment problems: Not being able to find a job, for having job and not being able to move up the corporate ladder, feeling like its near impossible to save money because if random circumstances popping up.
*Scriptural Support*: Job 1:13-22. In this scripture, Job experiences severe financial loss and tragedy, which can be seen as a form of demonic oppression aimed at shaking his faith in God.
The passage from Job 1:13-22 (KJV) says:
“And there was a day when his sons and his daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother’s house: And there came a messenger unto Job, and said, The oxen were plowing, and the asses feeding beside them: And the Sabeans fell upon them, and took them away; yea, they have slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, The fire of God is fallen from heaven, and hath burned up the sheep, and the servants, and consumed them; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, The Chaldeans made out three bands, and fell upon the camels, and have carried them away, yea, and slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, Thy sons and thy daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother’s house: And, behold, there came a great wind from the wilderness, and smote the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young men, and they are dead; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped, And said, Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord. In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.”
Read what to do about it in the Counter Series : overcoming Demonization through God’s Promises
Conclusion & What’s Next!
Thank you for staying with us through the eerie but necessary topic of Oppression. I trust this Biblical insight will equip you in recognizing and combating spiritual disturbances in your life. Next on our series, we will escalate our discussion to the third stage—Obsession. Buckle up; it’s going to be an engrossing read!
And remember, a visionary mind nurtures a creative spirit. Let your vision guide you, keep your mission organized, and always keep creating. Until next time, stay visionary.