It Seems Innocent Enough, but Is It?
Have you ever known somebody who is a Christian atheist? What? Let me explain.
A Christian atheist is someone who calls themselves a Christian, but acts as though they don’t believe in God.
That Time of the Year
Why do I bring this up? Well, at this time of the year—when Halloween is celebrated—there are often people who will ask or expect you to do or say things or go places or watch things that you normally wouldn’t do, say, go, or watch.
Now, let me be very clear: the devil is real, but praise God that He’s more powerful and keeps the devil at bay (see the Old Testament book of Job). But—and this is a big “but”—if you decide to do, say, go places, or watch things you know you shouldn’t, then don’t expect good things to happen.
The Devil is Real!
The devil and demonic activity are very real! Don’t mess around with any of it on purpose! Stay far away from anything or anybody that has anything to do with it! I have had too many people share accounts of terrifying experiences—and I (unfortunately) have had personal experience with this issue. Typically, by the time someone realizes the serious situation that they’re in—it’s too late! Don’t be that person. Trust me when I tell you that it’s wise to stay away from all things Halloween—even if they seem fun, silly, or harmless.
The Beating of a Lifetime
I’d like to share one story with you that illustrates this point rather vividly. Let me set up the story for you: the apostle Paul was in the incredible city of Ephesus. He was doing what he normally did: sharing the good news, miraculously healing the sick and casting out demons, and then this happened:
“A group of Jews was traveling from town to town casting out evil spirits. They tried to use the name of the Lord Jesus in their incantation, saying, ‘I command you in the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, to come out!” Seven sons of Sceva, a leading priest, were doing this. But one time when they tried it, the evil spirit replied, ‘I know Jesus, and I know Paul, but who are you?’ Then the man with the evil spirit leaped on them, overpowered them, and attacked them with such violence that they fled from the house, naked and battered” (Acts 19:13-16, NLT).
Purposeful Positioning
In the story, did you notice anything interesting? The seven sons of Sceva—though not believing (or having a real relationship with) Jesus themselves—purposefully positioned themselves into a situation they had no business being in. They were without the proper power source (the Holy Spirit).
They thought that they could use the name of “Jesus” like a lucky rabbit’s foot, but that’s not how it works. They got schooled by a demon who knew the names (power) of Jesus and Paul, but had never heard of them. Don’t miss the consequence: the demon beat them so badly they ran off naked and bleeding!
Now, hopefully you or anyone you know will never have to experience such a real and raw consequence of demonic involvement. Let me be honest with you, though: if you mess with the devil and things of the devil, you can’t expect for there not to be some sort of consequence.
Unmasking the Devil
Around this time of the year, people aren’t the only ones who dress up in order to trick others. The devil has been working really hard to make all the things that have to do with him as interesting and cool or harmless and fun. But, don’t get it twisted: the devil is your enemy. He hates you and wants to kill you!
Check out what Jesus said about him:
- “ ‘He [Satan aka “the devil”] was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies’ ” (John 8:44, NLT).
- Here’s another insight, directly from Jesus, into the character of Satan: “ ‘The thief’s [Satan aka “the devil”] purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My [Jesus] purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life’ ”(John 10:10, NLT).
- On the flip side, here’s what Jesus says about what He wants to do for you: “ ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the LORD. ‘They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope’ ” (Jeremiah 29:11, NLT).
Who Will You Choose?
Now, honestly, which sounds more appealing to you? Kicking it with a murderer and a liar, whose sole focus is to steal from you–to kill you, and to destroy you? Or someone who loves you and wants to give you a rich and satisfying life? I think the choice is pretty simple, but remember this one thing: when you choose to get involved in certain activities, you are giving permission and access to your life to the spirits (both good and evil) behind those activities.
During this season, and every season, here’s a rhyme that will keep you safe:
“By Jesus’ side always stay, and with the devil never play!”
Choose wisely.
