Mark 5:2,8-9,18-19 – And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. … [Jesus] was saying to him, "Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!" And Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" He replied, "My name is Legion, for we are many." … As [Jesus] was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. And he did not permit him but said to him, "Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." (ESV)

In my early years, errors of judgement and traumas of life evoked strong emotional responses in me. Oppressive forces latched onto and hid behind the sin, guilt, and shame. These were external entities that were seeking to damage and destroy my life through demon oppression, obsession, and depression.

Over forty years ago, in the hospital, I had an encounter with the Holy Spirit, Who called me to leave my work, go to Bible college, and serve Him. Over a period of time, the oppressive forces were dealt with supernaturally by prayer, Scripture, and Holy Spirit ministry, sometimes with instantaneous results, and other times over a day or two. It was truly a remarkable thing — even bizarre — to have clear insight after being instantly set free and given one's right mind back!

The man with Legion is significant for me because the influence of Legion made him anti-social and a danger, so he was ostracized by the community. When Jesus healed the man, He brought reconciliation, acceptance, forgiveness, re-entry into the local community, and a future with Jesus within His kingdom. Undoubtedly like the man with Legion, I was crying out in desperation, in recognition that something was wrong, asking for help to deter evil, to gain control over the situation, and to be delivered from external forces seeking to stop or nullify what I was doing and would do for God's kingdom. Praise the Lord that Jesus met me at my point of need, and my life was changed.

However, life and the devil have continued to plague my inner faith, hope, and love which are stored in Jesus. Sometimes, it comes through arguing, or pleading with, or questioning and doubting Jesus. Sometimes, it comes in the form of temptations such as pleasures of the flesh, television, mammon, fear of getting older, or fear of getting dementia. Sometimes, evil is physical, confrontational, and unpleasant.

I seek to be available to Jesus, and to put my trust in my journey with Him and the Word of God. As a consequence, I dare not go far from the Word and prayer because the lies of the evil one are relentlessly waiting to catch me out if I stray spiritually.

I believe that Jesus welcomes all those who earnestly seek Him, no matter what the circumstance. Even Legion had to obey the name of Jesus, so no one is beyond Jesus' desire to set free and comfort. Ask Him today.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for being there. Even when we feel alone and are isolated, You will come and find us. We welcome You into our midst today. Amen.

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About the author:

Rod Marshall <roderickhenrymarshall@gmail.com>
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England
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