Demons are real, and they can possess people. What does this possession look like? In Scripture, there are several stories of demon-possessed people suffering from physical problems like blindness, seizures, and an inability to speak. Then there is the story of Judas, where demons prompt him to do evil. The Bible details stories of demon-possessed people gaining more knowledge than they would otherwise have or having strength beyond what is normal for them.
How does one become possessed? The answer is not entirely clear, but Judas opened his heart to evil through greed. There is a sense that demon possession is something you seek or allow. Remember, Satan cannot rule the world through raw power (He would if he could!). He must rule the world through deceit. Demons cannot just enter people. While believers cannot come under the control of a demon, we can come under attack. We have the Holy Spirit within us, and our souls cannot be shared with a demon. But can we come under attack? Certainly. That’s why we need spiritual armor! Remember, deceit is Satan’s main tactic in spiritual warfare. What did Satan look like in Genesis 3? A snake. He uses various forms to accomplish his goals.
In Luke 11, Jesus drives out a demon, which amazes everyone. Who has this kind of power? Some claim that he must have struck a deal with Satan. Jesus reminds them that a house divided against itself will not stand. Jesus tells them how He will overcome the strong man, Satan. And then we get these words from Christ.
“Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me.” – Luke 11:23 (NLT)
Satan wants to destroy you. God wants to save you. You don’t need to fear darkness. Victory is yours in Christ. But you must make a choice to be on His side.