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Verse:For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. —Ephesians 6:12, NKJV
Having grown up in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, I knew very well the devious methods employed by Satan and his goal to destroy God’s children. Having memorized Bible texts as a child, I felt confident I would never be deceived by the supernatural and would easily recognize an evil spirit should it ever present itself. However, Satan seems to know when we are the most vulnerable and watches for these openings to deceive us. After my husband died, while getting a massage, my masseuse began to tell me that she had spirit guides on her shoulders that could help me get through this tough time. I did not think too much of it at the time, but it continued to bother me as I was reminded of a familiar Bible text: “For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14, NKJV).
Could I be experiencing this angel of light for myself? The thought was frightening, but I wanted to know more. A few weeks later I returned for another massage, and my masseuse began to tell me that my deceased husband had spoken to her about me. She excitedly shared his extensive message with me. His words were comforting.
He assured me that he was fine and that I should move on with my life. In the moment it felt good to hear from him. But wait a minute! Was this coming from one of those evil spirits I had read about in the Bible? As I thought about it, I felt mortified that I had almost been sucked into believing my husband was talking to me from the grave.
I knew in my heart this was Satan seeking to deceive me. I recalled the Bible text, “For the living know that they will die; but the dead know nothing” (Ecclesiastes 9:5, NKJV). I was fully convinced Satan was trying to trick me into doubting the Bible, which made me really angry. I quickly prayed for forgiveness for doubting God’s Word and seeking comfort and guidance from an evil source. Satan knew I was vulnerable, hurting, and wanting answers, and he attempted to take advantage of my condition. I praise God that I knew what His Word teaches. The battle is real. Let us determine to constantly keep our eyes focused on Jesus.
Judy Casper