Is there a demonic element to seemingly ordinary human problems?<\/p>\n
Sometimes.<\/p>\n
While full blown\u00a0demonic possession is rare, it is much more common for souls to be troubled by what might be called \u201cdemonic infection\u201d.<\/p>\n
In counseling people spiritually I have come to believe that there is a state of demonic influence in our lives which is greater than temptation and less than obsession. \u201cDemonic infection\u201d is when a person has opened themselves up to the influence of Satan in one particular area of their lives an that holds them back spiritually. I use the term \u201cdemonic infection\u201d because it is as if the person has a spiritual infection. It\u2019s not ruining their life completely and its not cutting them off from God totally, but like a physical infection, it is a nuisance. It causes a malady or pain or minor irritation. If it is not dealt with it could spread and become life threatening. So a \u201cdemonic infection\u201d can spread and do great damage.<\/p>\n
Demonic infection can hinder prayer and hold the person back from achieving victory over sin. I\u2019ve known demonic infection to be the cause of a stubborn addiction problem, an irrational anger problem, non clinical depression, sexual hang ups, relationship problems and spiritual blockages.<\/p>\n
Of course these problems are not always demonic in origin nor are they completely demonic. Sometimes the spiritual infection is a side aspect of a deeper problem or the result of a choice for sin. The infection might take place and the devil gets a foothold through the deliberate choice of sin. A Christian person might open themselves to the dark side through choosing to sin and that aspect of their life might always remain in shadow. Just as physical infection can be a complicating factor in a physical injury, so demonic infection can be a complicating factor in an otherwise ordinary psychological, spiritual or relationship problem.<\/p>\n