Wednesday, October 31, 2018

Do You Believe In Ghosts?


That is a classic line from the Wizard of Oz when the Lion was faced with going into the forest.  Did you know that we spent $9.1 billion in 2017 in the U.S. for Halloween? The number gets bigger every year – that increase is not just an adjustment for inflation.  People are infatuated with the macabre. With death and dying and life after death. (If you don’t believe it – just watch television)  The Bible speaks to the existence of demons – of supernatural beings residing on the earth.  Involved in the lives of people who are not sealed by the Spirit of God – born again.   (Luke 8:27-31) “When Jesus stepped ashore, he was met by a demon-possessed man from the town. For a long time this man had not worn clothes or lived in a house, but had lived in the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell at his feet, shouting at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don’t torture me!” For Jesus had commanded the impure spirit to come out of the man. Many times it had seized him, and though he was chained hand and foot and kept under guard, he had broken his chains and had been driven by the demon into solitary places. Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him. And they begged Jesus repeatedly not to order them to go into the Abyss.”   

Today, the reality of demons is often discounted – as no longer relevant.  But … the spiritual forces of darkness have not gone anywhere.  Not yet.  That is why Paul encouraged the Saints in Ephesians.  (Ephesians 6:11-12) “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”  Although we cannot be possessed, we can be influenced.  I hope that this holiday will be a reminder to you that  you were once bound for hell – along with the demons – but now you have the hope of eternity in heaven -  a glorious future. And … that in that knowledge you will walk in the light as He is in the light.  This little light of yours – let it shine – let it shine – let it shine. CHARLEY  

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