Demonic influence in the human mind

I was raised in a Christian household, and attended a South Baptist Church for most of my young adult life. Accountability for a persons' actions was a long standing sermon topic, for it was, and still is, considered the very foundation of our faith. We, as fleshly humans, struggle against many temptations in life that at their very core are demonic in nature. Without discernment, we leave ourselves open to unlimited temptation that can lead us down paths of loss, pain, and suffering. Eve, in the Garden, opened herself up to temptation merely by listening to a handful of twisted words that fell from the lips of pure evil. She was not forced to eat the apple, she was influenced by Satan to do so. She then convinced Adam to do likewise, who was more than willing to eat because he did not see the immediate consequences of her sin. The repercussions of her actions by ignoring God's commandment have been felt by the world ever since. We must remember that it is through our thoughts, and our actions, by which the demons can infect our minds and cloud our judgment.



But first, we need to acknowledge something often overlooked in the war of the flesh against spirit, and that is the power of suggestion. Sin, and the demons that help perpetuate it, can not force you do anything your not willing to consider. If you give in to the lusts of the flesh, no matter how powerful the influence or temptation was, you are still held accountable in the eyes of God, and man, for your actions. Consider how differently the story of salvation would have been had Jesus given in to Satan's offer during his 40 days and nights of temptation. Humanity for all eternity would suffer because of a moment of weakness and doubt. Keep in mind your actions can have consequences that affect more in life than you will ever know. Sin knows no bounds, has no conscience, and does not skip those who can not bear the weight of your transgressions.

So, how can we, as mere humans, fight the influence of demons and abstain from making the same sin ridden mistakes over and over? I would suggest that you reaffirm who you are in your faith, know your weaknesses and your strengths, and never try to walk this path alone. The most effective weapons you could ever posses to successfully combat temptation, is an educated mind and a heart full of love and conviction, focused on leading a righteous life. You will fall, and you will sin; we all make mistakes. Surround yourself with good people who will aid you in your struggle, and who are willing to help see you through your times of struggle and your times of triumph. Be ever vigilant, though, in caring for your soul and who you trust in your life with your most intimate struggles. Have no fear, only practice caution, sound judgement, and do all things in love.