I Invited Demons

[JustinHesychast]

This sounds ridiculous, but I tried it. LOL :P I invited demons into my mind, body, and soul last night before bed. I even took off my cross in case that would deter them. :P Nothing happened overnight and nothing has happened today. And I said it in my min and I even invited them with actual words. But nothing. I'm gonna give it another day or two before I totally conclude that demons don't exist.

[Oblio]

Do you actually think there would be a salient presence if you were expecting one, especially one in order to believe they exist. Satan gets his greatest stronghold when you are convinced he and his servants do not exist.

[JustinHesychast]

I wouldn't imagine they'd come into physical form... but I figured something bad would happen. It's actually been a lovely day. I am still not wearing my cross... just in case. LOL :P I sound like a lunatic. xD

[tekiahteruah]

Justin, whether or not you believe in demons, that's a very dangerous approach to spirituality. The world is frightening and mysterious, not controlled as we would like to believe. Life is a dark abyss. You never know who you're inviting. God should inspire in us loving, fearful awe-- the awe that comes from contact with one so beyond our understanding. The world and all its powers deserves no less. Remember that while God is merciful we also live in the world of cuckoos invading bird nests and killing the children of the mother that feeds it. Why should the spiritual reality of this world be any less frightening? Beautiful, yes, but frightening. Learn from nature... and don't send out open invitations.

[Greg the byzantine]

Idiotic. You are trying to use the scientific Method to prove the existance of demons. Truly Idiotic. Do you think that the devil is called "Poniros" "The Clever One" for a reason. Don't you think he knows that you are testing him. He is not that stupid, but you are because you have opened the door, and when the door is open you may let something in that you can not see at first. The seed may be planted and it may just be a matter of time before you come under attack. What will you look for? Will you know when it happens, or will it take you by surprise and then you will find yourself under evil influences without even knowing it.


Here's what you did. You said you have :
Problem: The existence of demons.
Hypothesis: You guessed either they do or don't exist.
Set up your experiment: You invited the demons in.


Now you are in trouble. How do you eliminate variables, such as the presence of angels warding off demonic attack, or the shield of prayers which may be protecting you without you knowing, or the fact that God's hand may be at work protecting you. To have a good experiment you have to eliminate variables.

Then how will you collect your data. How will you know when the evil forces are actually at work, how will you measure their affect. You can't empirically deduce the presence of unseen (unpercieved) forces such as angels or demons.

I for one pray that you do not come under their influence :crosseo:

[Rhamiel]

yea that is a dangerous experiment, Oblio is right, if you knew that demons where real it you would be more likely to see there workings in this world, it would be like if in 1950 Sen. McCarthy just said "Ok all the communist spies come into my house and tell me your name, adress and what you do for a living" Demons get more done when you are not looking for them.

[ma2000]

Justin, I can't stress enough how dangerous is what you are doing....


Sfinte Antonie cel Mare, Sfinte Vasile cel Mare si Sfinte Sfintite mucenice Cipriane, miluiti si paziti pe robul lui Dumnezeu Justin de tot raul!

[Komnenos]

Idiotic. You are trying to use the scientific Method to prove the existance of demons. Truly Idiotic. Do you think that the devil is called "Poniros" "The Clever One" for a reason. Don't you think he knows that you are testing him. He is not that stupid, but you are because you have opened the door, and when the door is open you may let something in that you can not see at first. The seed may be planted and it may just be a matter of time before you come under attack. What will you look for? Will you know when it happens, or will it take you by surprise and then you will find yourself under evil influences without even knowing it.


Here's what you did. You said you have :
Problem: The existence of demons.
Hypothesis: You guessed either they do or don't exist.
Set up your experiment: You invited the demons in.


Now you are in trouble. How do you eliminate variables, such as the presence of angels warding off demonic attack, or the shield of prayers which may be protecting you without you knowing, or the fact that God's hand may be at work protecting you. To have a good experiment you have to eliminate variables.

Then how will you collect your data. How will you know when the evil forces are actually at work, how will you measure their affect. You can't empirically deduce the presence of unseen (unpercieved) forces such as angels or demons.

I for one pray that you do not come under their influence :crosseo:
:amen:

[Rhamiel]

also it is kind of like messing with the mob or big bussiness or the a politicion, they don't just "take you out" when you first do something and all the attention is on them, they wait a while and make it look like an accident

[Rhamiel]

also this is not very scientific, you are dealing with rational beings, it is not like you are forcing them into you

[SeraphimSarov]

The fact that nothing has happened to you is proof only of their cunning. Of course they don't want you to think they exist. Why would they attack you upon your invitation? So you could flee to God and beg Him for salvation? Of course not. Their cause is lost then. So they let you sit there waiting for something supernatural or bad to happen, and when it doesn't, you might conceivably start questioning a lot more than the presence or even existence of demons. And at that point, you might even start questioning the existence of more than just the demons...

At that point they've got you. They've accomplished their mission and you don't perceive any "bad thing" to have happened. Put an end to this now and pray for protection from their influence.

[Komnenos]

http://www.monroe.edu/~mcq/rel/images/laddertoheaven.jpg

[Jacob4707]

This sounds ridiculous, but I tried it. LOL :P I invited demons into my mind, body, and soul last night before bed. I even took off my cross in case that would deter them. :P Nothing happened overnight and nothing has happened today. And I said it in my min and I even invited them with actual words. But nothing. I'm gonna give it another day or two before I totally conclude that demons don't exist.

It's probably because you forgot to remove the garlic and wolfsbane from your house. Those keep the demons out.

[marvmax]

It's probably because you forgot to remove the garlic and wolfsbane from your house. Those keep the demons out.^_^
Maybe he had some garlic for breakfast and kept him safe all day.

Seriously Justin, as your co-believers have stated, playing around with demons/the occult is a seriously dumb thing to do.

[Anhelyna]

Justin

I've been away for 6 weeks , and here you are doing really really daft things . I totally agree with Greg - you don't think anything has happened - but I would not be surprised if it already has.

For goodness sake man - were you expecting one to come and tap you on the sholder and say

"I'm here - can I come in or have you grown some commonsense yet ?"

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHH

[TrueHope]

Juatin, take it from me....The one who opened doors in my own youth....and suffered greatly from "Games" close the doors NOW! Normally I do not get firm in posts, but I will on this one. Because I know what they do and how they work. Once you opened a door, you may wait and wait and wait, because you are looking for what they will not give you...and when you think ok, all done now...bam. Not only can they hit you....hard, but they will utilize family, friends, animals, anything they feel like that will get you either stuck in awe, or struck in fear.

Lord, have mercy upon your servant Justin. Protect him from the wiles of the evil one and give him and his angel full force to close the doors on the evil one and his workers of iniquity.:crosseo:

PS. BTw, they never sleep. They have always watched you so don't think you have some new thing coming that you invited. They will attack mentally, physically, psychological warfare, and especially against God!!!! They can put thoughts into your head...your friends head, your mom's head...they've been at work for a long long time....now it is your job to close the doors on them and never do such a thing again!

[Protoevangel]

What makes you think you would recognize it before it was entirely too late? What makes you think you would actually recognize it, even itf it were too late?

Utter stupidity.

Edit: Actually, I think this is just another ploy for attention.

[Silentchapel]

So, we have demons who are:
1) old as history itself
2) not bound by boundaries of space as we know it
3) incapalble of forgeting things
4) driven only by their sheer hate for us
5) cunning enough to trick even extremly holy people
and you think you'll make them do something that would be incredibly stupid from their side? Come on.
Btw - demons attacked you and defeated you the split second you agreed to 'invite' them or take of your cross and such. You don't need a black marble altar with a virgin sacrifice to summon demons. You summon them with your heart.

[JustinHesychast]

Interesting. :P

[Breaking Babylon]

So, we have demons who are:
1) old as history itself
2) not bound by boundaries of space as we know it
3) incapalble of forgeting things
4) driven only by their sheer hate for us
5) cunning enough to trick even extremly holy people
and you think you'll make them do something that would be incredibly stupid from their side? Come on.
Btw - demons attacked you and defeated you the split second you agreed to 'invite' them or take of your cross and such. You don't need a black marble altar with a virgin sacrifice to summon demons. You summon them with your heart.
Amen. Amen. Amen.

By the way, if you want to know the existence of demons, grow in holiness. Monks are more attacked and provoked than anyone else, because they're a true threat to them. You, however, are a demons plaything right now. Your lack of reverence for God's temple, your disbelief in the angels He cast from heaven, your vain and abyssal curiosity -- how many more signs do you need? Who made you Saint Anthony? Repent.

[AJB4]

I'm in agreement with the others. I gotta say though, the occult is fascinating...

[Breaking Babylon]

As fascinating as that fruit on the tree was.

[AJB4]

As fascinating as that fruit on the tree was.
http://www.fotosearch.com/comp/BDX/BDX341/bxp64655.jpg

[All4Christ]

All I have to say is....wow. :doh:

I'm praying for you!!!

[JustinHesychast]

I feel all depressed. Like I am majorly in the pits. At first I attributed it to my whole demon debacle... but it's really no different than my usual depression I get several times a week.

[AJB4]

I feel all depressed. Like I am majorly in the pits. At first I attributed it to my whole demon debacle... but it's really no different than my usual depression I get several times a week.

Maybe the demons will have gone easy on you this time.

[woobadooba]

Do you actually think there would be a salient presence if you were expecting one, especially one in order to believe they exist. Satan gets his greatest stronghold when you are convinced he and his servants do not exist.

You should be very careful. The Lord may give you what you ask for.

It would be better for you to just take Him at His word, and know that when Jesus rebuked demons He wasn't speaking to the air!

"Then they sailed to the region of the Gerasenes, which is opposite Galilee. When He got out on land, a demon-possessed man from the town met Him. For a long time he had worn no clothes and did not stay in a house but in the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out, fell down before Him, and said in a loud voice, "What do You have to do with me, Jesus, You Son of the Most High God? I beg You, don't torment me!" For He had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man.

Many times it had seized him, and although he was guarded, bound by chains and shackles, he would snap the restraints and be driven by the demon into deserted places. "What is your name?" Jesus asked him. "Legion," he said--because many demons had entered him. And they begged Him not to banish them to the abyss. A large herd of pigs was there, feeding on the hillside. The demons begged Him to permit them to enter the pigs, and He gave them permission. The demons came out of the man and entered the pigs, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and drowned." (Luk 8:26-33 HCSB)

[TrueHope]

Maybe the demons will have gone easy on you this time.
No such thing.

First off, when you play with fire, you WILL get burned. 2nd, it will hit you where it hurts! 3rd. If you ever doubted that demons exist...just look around you. Everywhere....their work is quite obvious.

And it is true, the closer you are to God, the more they attack...so since you thought it wise to summons them, I suggest you start praying to our Almighty Father in repentance (Now I sound like the church lady! ;) ) and start seeking to fix this. Cuz you can't be wayward here. Demons aren't human with human thoughts....they are far more intelligent....to them, you are a wayward, lost kid whom now they are ready to more obviously devour because you asked them to. And believe me, they were devouring you before, now they have an open invitation..... Sorry to be so harsh...but that is the reality. I suggest you go talk to your priest (or SF) and get going...They are much more experienced in this area.

PS...Depression ....just think about it....and the subject....now you see one area where they can hit you...and how you have been a target for a long time....start looking at problems....inside and out....don't let the liar keep whispering in your ear things you don't need...tell him to GO!

[Philothei]

Actually it is funny you post that Gospel reading was last Sunday's Gospel reading for the ones following the "new calendar" though....

Philothei

[Slambo]

I'm in agreement with the others. I gotta say though, the occult is fascinating...

Yes it is fascinating. Much like a pitcher plant is fascinating to flies. I spent 12 years as a Christian with heavy demonic oppression that was directly related to my pre-Christian involvement with the occult. It wasn't until I made the decision to become Orthodox that it broke and was gone.

[Xpycoctomos]

Interesting. :P
Your responses here tell me that you are completely and utterly deluded. Enough to suggest that you are underst some kind of demonic influence already. Why would you do that? Whehter you believe in Demons or not, you do believe in Christ, don't you? Why would you even play with this idea?

You don't even know how dangerous it is what you are doing. Satan is so clever, he's planting the seeds of destruction in all of us and we constantly have to clean house with prayer and vigilance/ You have said "go at it!" and have let go of any kind of vigilance. You need to pull back.

Just a heads up, when you do pull back to your senses, that is probably when life will starting getting crappy becuase 1) the Holy Spirit will be working to get rid of all the crap you let in... much like your body naturally excretes puss and vomit so we aren't poisoned and 2) Satan will be working against you all the harder. But right now it is so much easier to keep you deluded.

Xpy

[Xpycoctomos]

I feel all depressed. Like I am majorly in the pits. At first I attributed it to my whole demon debacle... but it's really no different than my usual depression I get several times a week.
Since you are not Orthodox, you need to talk to your pastor or someone who cares about your spiritual wellbeing.

Are you getting counseling for you depression? Please do seek out help. I think your depression is related to your willingness to be self-destructive with this experiment.

Seriously, get help, both spiritual and professional. Your life will, in the long run, thank you for it. And it is NOT uncommon to get professional help. Actually, although it's common, it's not common enough.

Xpy

[Chocolatesa]

I can't stress enough how much trouble you've gotten yourself into. You need to start working in the opposite direction, and now. I second what everyone else said. I'll be praying for you. Read this: http://foru.ms/t5103005-spiritual-warfare-pt-2.html
and this: http://foru.ms/t5605872-just-some-things.html
and you'll see they do exist. Just ask anyone who was in the occult and is now Christian. I'll be praying for you. Please turn around now. :crosseo:

[TrueHope]

Your responses here tell me that you are completely and utterly deluded. Enough to suggest that you are underst some kind of demonic influence already. Why would you do that? Whehter you believe in Demons or not, you do believe in Christ, don't you? Why would you even play with this idea?

You don't even know how dangerous it is what you are doing. Satan is so clever, he's planting the seeds of destruction in all of us and we constantly have to clean house with prayer and vigilance/ You have said "go at it!" and have let go of any kind of vigilance. You need to pull back.

Just a heads up, when you do pull back to your senses, that is probably when life will starting getting crappy becuase 1) the Holy Spirit will be working to get rid of all the crap you let in... much like your body naturally excretes puss and vomit so we aren't poisoned and 2) Satan will be working against you all the harder. But right now it is so much easier to keep you deluded.

Xpy
Fully agreed! I could go on and on about this subject. Unfortunately, I know far too much than I would ever like to admit...and am so disappointed in the reaction. This is no game. And let me tell you, thank GOD people are talking about it now, because in my day when I had no idea what I did, no one warned me or told me anything. Now, people have had too many experiences and are finally comfortable discussing it in the open without feeling insane. I just want to shout...you silly boy...you have no clue. No clue at all....and when all the fears you have come to surface, and strange dreams, and even perhaps clouds over your head and then some...( you can't imagine, my dear) you won't say..."Interesting..." You'll be calling everyone you know here who fought this off, begging for help. You have to cleanse your house, and that includes your own personal subject, your hidden secrets and repent in front of God. Find a Christian leader with high experience here, because you are too young, and too inviting to fight this alone. You've been tempted, and you fell. So, while the demons are laughing, the angels are shaking their heads in sadness. And no, this is no fairy tale, it is more reality than your flesh, so wake up....Now, you are officially in a spiritual battle field....welcome to Spiritual Warfare, my dear....as I have had to tell my own teens regarding this stuff...out of their own curiosity due to Charmed, I had to tell them KNOCK IT OFF...ditto for you! I'm a mom, I got rights here! Better to tell you out front than to watch you suffer the consequences of your actions.

[nikolayalexandroff]

Justin, Isaac is right. Try to pray regularly, try to fast, try to do good works (Math 5:16), try to attend Church regularly and you'll see soon enough that demons do exist, and they hate everyone who undertakes the slightest attempt to change his life for the better, according to Christ's teaching. Forgive me, but you did nothing to enrage them yet, and if they didn't pay any attention on you, it's because they're despising you.

[Knowledge3]

I think Justin is looking for a mystical experience and confuses the real demons with pagan spirits. The real demons will deceive you and lead you astray, betray your intellect and do harm to your spiritual state. I study the Philokalia and try to live the ascetic lifestyle, the mystical encounter you are seeking is nothing more than a scary and unpleasant encounter with an inimical,impious,and mercenary demonic spirit. The Savior teaches that this kind is dealt with only by fasting and prayer. So I do not recommend inviting anymore 'spirits'.

. . .

[SpyridonOCA]

This sounds ridiculous, but I tried it. LOL :P I invited demons into my mind, body, and soul last night before bed. I even took off my cross in case that would deter them. :P Nothing happened overnight and nothing has happened today. And I said it in my min and I even invited them with actual words. But nothing. I'm gonna give it another day or two before I totally conclude that demons don't exist.

The greatest deceit Satan could possibly make is convince human beings of his non-existence. One cannot be an Orthodox Christian and believe that demons, fallen angels, do not exist.

[Slambo]

This sounds ridiculous, but I tried it. LOL :P I injected live HIV into my mind, body, and soul last night before bed. I even took off my cross in case that would deter them. :P Nothing happened overnight and nothing has happened today. And I said it in my min and I even injected them with actual needles. But nothing. I'm gonna give it another day or two before I totally conclude that AIDS don't exist.

[Jacob4707]

The greatest deceit Satan could possibly make is convince human beings of his non-existence.

That's what Keyser Soze said.

[foxsta]

Just putting in my 2 cents: this whole thing sounds crazy and really quite stupid. I original thought 'you what?!' when I read the OP. Evil spirits/demons/Satan are not things you want to mess with...very bad indeed. Can't stress how dumb this is!

[MsDahl]

TrueHope, I was curious by your posts, do you think that you can invite demons in without actually doing what Justin did but rather play games like the Ouija board or something like that? (in regards to when you referenced 'games' in one of your posts)

Anyway, Orthodox Christians cannot be possessed by demons as demons cannot reside in the same Temple filled with the Holy Spirit. That would mean that one would have to renounce Christ as their Savior and become an empty vessel in order to be possessed by a demon.

[Orthosdoxa]

Anyway, Orthodox Christians cannot be possessed by demons as demons cannot reside in the same Temple filled with the Holy Spirit. That would mean that one would have to renounce Christ as their Savior and become an empty vessel in order to be possessed by a demon.

I don't think this is true. I've read of monks who allowed demons in by experimenting with hesychastic prayer before they were ready for it.

[Protoevangel]

TrueHope, I was curious by your posts, do you think that you can invite demons in without actually doing what Justin did but rather play games like the Ouija board or something like that? (in regards to when you referenced 'games' in one of your posts)
I can't speak for TrueHope, but I would say, "Absolutely."

Anyway, Orthodox Christians cannot be possessed by demons as demons cannot reside in the same Temple filled with the Holy Spirit. That would mean that one would have to renounce Christ as their Savior and become an empty vessel in order to be possessed by a demon.
Are you suggesting that just because one is outwardly "Orthodox", that they are automatically filled with the Holy Spirit?

[MsDahl]

I can't speak for TrueHope, but I would say, "Absolutely."


Are you suggesting that just because one is outwardly "Orthodox", that they are automatically filled with the Holy Spirit?


Hmm, I didn't say anything about one's outward appearance. How did you arrive at that conclusion based on my comments? To be clear, I am referring to a person's inner state. If one is filled with the Holy Spirit, one cannot be filled with a demon. A person cannot serve two masters according to Scripture. I do realize that to be human is to be weak and that there is a battle for our minds. That is why we need daily prayer and daily surrender so that our minds can remain filled with Godly thoughts so there is no room for the devil.

[SpyridonOCA]

That's what Keyser Soze said.

It's C.S. Lewis.

[MsDahl]

I don't think this is true. I've read of monks who allowed demons in by experimenting with hesychastic prayer before they were ready for it.

Forgive my ignorance but I am unfamiliar with hesychastic prayer.

[TrueHope]

TrueHope, I was curious by your posts, do you think that you can invite demons in without actually doing what Justin did but rather play games like the Ouija board or something like that? (in regards to when you referenced 'games' in one of your posts)

Anyway, Orthodox Christians cannot be possessed by demons as demons cannot reside in the same Temple filled with the Holy Spirit. That would mean that one would have to renounce Christ as their Savior and become an empty vessel in order to be possessed by a demon.
Absolutely. And then some. What many of my friends, including, I will add my hubs experience. (We did not know each other then, we were both teens on opposite sides of the planet.) From his and his friends experiments, one of their female friends committed suicide because of the demons that revealed themselves to her from their Game. After that, the entire group stopped....it is addicting, it is fascinating, and it is dangerous. I won't state what I have witnessed myself with others...so none of us could say ..."Hey stupid, you did not see it" (as obnoxious teens)...we all did. So much that we got together regularly....until it became very very scary. For me, it did not stop there, I was so fascinated that I began invoking things on my own...I had, what I thought was a spirit guide, that, well, at first was wild and wonderful, and then haunted me nightly, daily....things moved on their own, all kinds of freaky things. That was the beginning. All of it stopped the day...literally the day, I met my hub. At that point he must have been a really faithful Orthodox....he had so much faith...me...I was anti faith. I had been Athiest for years....

Since then, I am very sensitive to negative energies, and positive...I don't like it...but in church, I do. :) And I see how since I had converted to Orthodox, little changed, but once I believed in Christ....I got seriously attacked on all corners...just not up front like when I was a teen through 30. This time, it came from family....I have witnessed too much. I went to a shrink...a long time ago...who said, there is nothing wrong with me, it was my past...I knew it wasn't. Finally when I found a good priest, they confirmed what I dealt with was in fact real, and not my imagination. And that what I felt, and sensed, and saw..through people, was just that, demonic influences etc. Believe me, it is not fun....However, I learned a lot. And it is true, when Christ is in your life....They run....from YOU....however, they do not run from those around you....and they can still attack you through them. My priest can tell you stories that you would think only came from the movies. We have some incredible talks...and most of the spiritual brothers and sisters have had very similar experiences to mine....as I said, I won't share them...I don't want anyone to even think about it....And I dread writing this. BUT, I don't want Justin going through an ounce of what I and many others have experienced. It starts off wild, then bam.....all kinds of things happen. The spiritual war around each person doesn't end...just when we are aware, we have weapons to fight back that we did not have when we were ignorant and stupid.

[MsDahl]

Absolutely. And then some. What many of my friends, including, I will add my hubs experience. (We did not know each other then, we were both teens on opposite sides of the planet.) From his and his friends experiments, one of their female friends committed suicide because of the demons that revealed themselves to her from their Game. After that, the entire group stopped....it is addicting, it is fascinating, and it is dangerous. I won't state what I have witnessed myself with others...so none of us could say ..."Hey stupid, you did not see it" (as obnoxious teens)...we all did. So much that we got together regularly....until it became very very scary. For me, it did not stop there, I was so fascinated that I began invoking things on my own...I had, what I thought was a spirit guide, that, well, at first was wild and wonderful, and then haunted me nightly, daily....things moved on their own, all kinds of freaky things. That was the beginning. All of it stopped the day...literally the day, I met my hub. At that point he must have been a really faithful Orthodox....he had so much faith...me...I was anti faith. I had been Athiest for years....

Since then, I am very sensitive to negative energies, and positive...I don't like it...but in church, I do. :) And I see how since I had converted to Orthodox, little changed, but once I believed in Christ....I got seriously attacked on all corners...just not up front like when I was a teen through 30. This time, it came from family....I have witnessed too much. I went to a shrink...a long time ago...who said, there is nothing wrong with me, it was my past...I knew it wasn't. Finally when I found a good priest, they confirmed what I dealt with was in fact real, and not my imagination. And that what I felt, and sensed, and saw..through people, was just that, demonic influences etc. Believe me, it is not fun....However, I learned a lot. And it is true, when Christ is in your life....They run....from YOU....however, they do not run from those around you....and they can still attack you through them. My priest can tell you stories that you would think only came from the movies. We have some incredible talks...and most of the spiritual brothers and sisters have had very similar experiences to mine....as I said, I won't share them...I don't want anyone to even think about it....And I dread writing this. BUT, I don't want Justin going through an ounce of what I and many others have experienced. It starts off wild, then bam.....all kinds of things happen. The spiritual war around each person doesn't end...just when we are aware, we have weapons to fight back that we did not have when we were ignorant and stupid.

Thanks for sharing. If I may be so bold, how were you delivered from those evil spirits that you invited in to your life? I assume it was through your baptism?

[Protoevangel]

Anyway, Orthodox Christians cannot be possessed by demons as demons cannot reside in the same Temple filled with the Holy Spirit. That would mean that one would have to renounce Christ as their Savior and become an empty vessel in order to be possessed by a demon. Hmm, I didn't say anything about one's outward appearance. How did you arrive at that conclusion based on my comments?
You said "Orthodox Christians cannot be possessed by demons...". You certainly seemed to be inferring that "all Orthodox Christians" are automatically immune from demonic possession. That's how I arrived at that conclusion based on your comments.

To be clear, I am referring to a person's inner state. If one is filled with the Holy Spirit, one cannot be filled with a demon. A person cannot serve two masters according to Scripture.
Thank you for clarifying. :)

[MsDahl]

You said "Orthodox Christians cannot be possessed by demons...". You certainly seemed to be inferring that "all Orthodox Christians" are automatically immune from demonic possession. That's how I arrived at that conclusion based on your comments.


Thank you for clarifying. :)

Your quite welcome, Protoevangel. Although, if I meant all Orthodox Christian I would have said that.

[TrueHope]

Thanks for sharing. If I may be so bold, how were you delivered from those evil spirits that you invited in to your life? I assume it was through your baptism?
Well, that is a toughie, because I noticed immediately the day I met my hub that the night terrors and certain things just stopped....out of the blue. The night of our first date. Then, I assume, that he must have been praying really hard for me, because after that, I felt a huge release. It was a year later that I was baptized Orthodox, and when talking with our priest at the time, he warned me about how the devil would try to break us up...because we both were so in love....I still had no faith in Christ...God, yes...Holy Spirit? What was that....I was still very clueless. I laughed inside at his statement...which tells me, they had not left, just chose a different venue with me. Like...thoughts...then, after we came to Greece, I was left in a rough situation with my hub gone in the army for almost 8 months...and no money no rent...it was really bad, with 3 small kids...so I got on my knees and begged God to reveal the TRUTH to me. That, He did....I woke up one day with a fire for Christ burning so strong in me, it was as if my entire life, I knew Him and loved Him and served Him....(Not the case at all...I ran very very far from Him.) Then one day, deep in prayer and thought, I heard very strong..."You know that evil exists and the devil exists, how could you have denied ME for so long?" At that point I broke down in tears, I never had before....like an enormous release.

To continue this novel, I had no English Bible, I tried church, but couldn't understand a word, or when to go for communion, and they push a lot in certain churches here....so I didn't go. I learned a lot from God...or should I say, the Holy Spirit really worked hard with me...showing me things I did, showing me how the devil works, etc...and utilizing verses I had no idea existed from the bible. From that moment, that I had the fire for Christ, my entire family went haywire....I mean, crazy. My kids started throwing tantrums out of the blues, screaming, nightmares etc....so I heard inside, Satan, Leave, Jesus resides here....so I shouted it....It was the most surreal moment I ever had.....Everyone stopped....the house was silent for about 3 hours, and the kids were back to normal.....then, I realized that I had another war...in which, inside, I heard...this is because of your NEW faith..............I know, it sounds crazy! So, as I said before, there are so many ways the devil tries to devour us. And so clever...so so clever. And for me, the war still continues, but on a different level...still with family....for now, my hub has changed 180...he doesn't go to church, he is angry, he brings satanic movies and music home for the kids, and even though he is aware as to how bad this is, he continues to do so. Plus much more....Needless to say, I am constantly praying.......The devil will NOT win my family....though he is trying very hard.....like with all families!

[MoNiCa4316]

TrueHope, wow that is an amazing story! :eek: Praise God for bringing you to Him...the devil is clever indeed, but God will win this war!

Justin, I think you are not fully realizing what you're doing. You're playing with fire here. The enemy is a deceiver. he knows what will work on you. he wants you to conclude that demons do not exist, because then you would not try to fight them... don't you know the enemy wants to destroy us? I completely agree with what the others have said....repent, and ask God to help you...see your priest...

Once you'll conclude that demons do not exist, they will have a greater advantage over you...then things will happen, for sure. :(

[Slambo]

Well, that is a toughie, because I noticed immediately the day I met my hub that the night terrors and certain things just stopped....out of the blue. The night of our first date. Then, I assume, that he must have been praying really hard for me, because after that, I felt a huge release.

That is very similar to my experience though I didn't suffer from night terrors. With me, it was constant bombardment with images that were either lascivious or extremely violent. I was Christian and had been for 12 years but when I conciously made the decision to convert to Orthodoxy, the oppression just stopped. Like you said, "out of the blue."

That was the make or break criteria that I set for Orthodoxy, whether demons were real or metaphorical. It probably sounds silly but I had seen entirely too much when I was involved in the occult to buy into a Church that denied how real it was.

I asked Father about it. He looked at me gravely and said, "The forces of darkness are very real."

[TrueHope]

That is very similar to my experience though I didn't suffer from night terrors. With me, it was constant bombardment with images that were either lascivious or extremely violent. I was Christian and had been for 12 years but when I conciously made the decision to convert to Orthodoxy, the oppression just stopped. Like you said, "out of the blue."

That was the make or break criteria that I set for Orthodoxy, whether demons were real or metaphorical. It probably sounds silly but I had seen entirely too much when I was involved in the occult to buy into a Church that denied how real it was.

I asked Father about it. He looked at me gravely and said, "The forces of darkness are very real."
WOW...I got the chills reading your post. I too, (And had forgotten this) Had terrible images put in my head...sick things....After I had converted (Believed in our Precious Christ!!!) , and I immediately rebuked them...actually I laughed several times, because it was SO Obvious that it was NOT me that they stopped as fast as they came. (Nip it in the bud! lol)

[MoNiCa4316]

I went through a time once when I was attacked with all kinds of evil thoughts that didn't seem to come from me...the enemy put words in my head (about God!! :( ) that I would never say. I wasn't spending much time with God and my faith was weakening, and I think they just took that opportunity. I struggled so much with this...I didn't know what to do. But then I just realized that God Himself is there to protect me...and I felt stronger all of a sudden. I really felt like these thoughts came from demons...I prayed for more faith, and then just told them to go away in the name of Christ. I just believed that they would be afraid of Him, and leave. And they did!! I was attacked again several more times, but each time I just reached out to God and He helped me. Eventually they gave up...I haven't been tempted like this for a very long time. :D Every time I think of demons I just think of the Holy Spirit living inside me, and I know they are afraid of Him and won't come near. Sometimes I can feel His presence, I can't describe it, but I know He's protecting me.

[icedtea]

When I was little, I always was afraid, especially at night and especially of my fathers bedroom.
I knew there was something scary, but ahd never bene taught about demons.
I knew ghosts were probably not real, and even if they were, and were hazy dead humans; hazy dead humasn weren't Evil which I sensed these were.
After i became saved, I stopped being afraid.
Horror movies used to scare me so, now they only depress me.

[TrueHope]

Personally, Justin...I'd rather be preparing my soul for this, rather than demon conjuring. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyGCcwknADo

Who do you trust more? He, who loves you and created you, or some test? I have faith in you!!!! I really do!

[Xpycoctomos]

Well, that is a toughie, because I noticed immediately the day I met my hub that the night terrors and certain things just stopped....out of the blue. The night of our first date. Then, I assume, that he must have been praying really hard for me, because after that, I felt a huge release. It was a year later that I was baptized Orthodox, and when talking with our priest at the time, he warned me about how the devil would try to break us up...because we both were so in love....I still had no faith in Christ...God, yes...Holy Spirit? What was that....I was still very clueless. I laughed inside at his statement...which tells me, they had not left, just chose a different venue with me. Like...thoughts...then, after we came to Greece, I was left in a rough situation with my hub gone in the army for almost 8 months...and no money no rent...it was really bad, with 3 small kids...so I got on my knees and begged God to reveal the TRUTH to me. That, He did....I woke up one day with a fire for Christ burning so strong in me, it was as if my entire life, I knew Him and loved Him and served Him....(Not the case at all...I ran very very far from Him.) Then one day, deep in prayer and thought, I heard very strong..."You know that evil exists and the devil exists, how could you have denied ME for so long?" At that point I broke down in tears, I never had before....like an enormous release.

To continue this novel, I had no English Bible, I tried church, but couldn't understand a word, or when to go for communion, and they push a lot in certain churches here....so I didn't go. I learned a lot from God...or should I say, the Holy Spirit really worked hard with me...showing me things I did, showing me how the devil works, etc...and utilizing verses I had no idea existed from the bible. From that moment, that I had the fire for Christ, my entire family went haywire....I mean, crazy. My kids started throwing tantrums out of the blues, screaming, nightmares etc....so I heard inside, Satan, Leave, Jesus resides here....so I shouted it....It was the most surreal moment I ever had.....Everyone stopped....the house was silent for about 3 hours, and the kids were back to normal.....then, I realized that I had another war...in which, inside, I heard...this is because of your NEW faith..............I know, it sounds crazy! So, as I said before, there are so many ways the devil tries to devour us. And so clever...so so clever. And for me, the war still continues, but on a different level...still with family....for now, my hub has changed 180...he doesn't go to church, he is angry, he brings satanic movies and music home for the kids, and even though he is aware as to how bad this is, he continues to do so. Plus much more....Needless to say, I am constantly praying.......The devil will NOT win my family....though he is trying very hard.....like with all families!
Thank you for sharing. I'll pray for your husband.

Xpy

[rainbowbright]

What's really odd is that for me, I was never attacked until the very night I was baptized Orthodox. I have been Christian for as long as I can remember, but when I was at Vespers the night of my baptism, I started to really doubt Christ.I kept telling myself that God didn't really exist and when I was whatching my priest, I kept thinking that all this is just meaningless ritual. I started HATING certain people to the point where I would be hostile towards them. I had just had my daughter and came down with major postpartem depression, I was unable to nurse and that went against me and I completely rebelled against the church. I d I literally felt like I was on the outside of some dimension and something was hanging over me. My husband's family started in on the battle too and called us pharisees and were trying to give communion to our son, in the Episcopal church, behind our back. Iwas so mentally distraught that I eventually contracted a very serious neurological disorder that I fully recovered from but I do still have some nerve damage.
My priest told me I was being attacked by a demon and since my whole family had converted, they like tp pick on one member of the family to get you to leave and then everone else will follow.
I think I have finally rid of this demon but I feel like I have to build my faith up all over again and I am literally struggling to keeo a hold of it.

[Xpycoctomos]

I think I remember you sharing some of these struggles with us. Stay strong. You're in our prayers.

[SaintMarina]

TrueHope, rainbowbright, and Monica4316,

I found your posts to be very encouraging, as our family is also under spiritual attack. Thanks for sharing your experiences.

Shig

[paleodoxy]

These are some incredible stories.

I have never spoken of it until now, but I had a very special experience in late August (a positive one). This was literally days prior to my first catechumen class and only weeks after officially determining to become Orthodox. I suppose I haven't shared it because it was such an intimate experience that I considered keeping it between me and God, but after viewing this thread, I'd like to share it as a means of encouragement, and esp. if it may have any potential for strengthening the faith of even just one person here.

Periodically throughout my life, I have been struck by the "foolishness" of the Cross. This happened in a much more powerful way for the first time in my life that day. Prior to that day, I cannot say that I've ever had what I would call a divine or spiritual encounter. In fact, having spent my whole life in churches that virtually denied the continuation of the more "supernatural" of the spiritual gifts, this event was quite a statement! Of course, I have observed the more sublte power, love and wisdom of the Spirit at work in me throughout the years, but nothing like a direct spiritual encounter.

I was sitting alone at the computer doing some work (writing a report or something) one weekday afternoon at the office. The boss had gone out to take care of errands, and the secretary was out of the office, so I was juggling a couple of tasks simultaneously (though it was a very quiet day, as far as the phones go).

My mind started to wander as I stopped to consider the utter foolishness of the idea of the God of the universe caring enough about us to condescend to our human level in order to save us wretches. To actually take on a human body and share in our sufferings, griefs, physical weaknesses and spiritual trials - for who? Miserable sinners utterly undeserving of His mercy. Why?

This is when the strangest (yet most wonderful thing) occurred: I began to cry (with joy), but no sooner had I started crying when something took control over me and immediately converted it into utter hilarity and amusement. I was literally cracking up, and at first this shocked and surprised me because it was so contrary to the emotion I was having seconds before, and there was no prior warning of this conversion to amusement. Yet at the same time, in some mysterious, inexplicable way, while it was not at all my own doing, I cannot say that it occurred against my will. In other words, I certainly was not possessed by something else. It was me laughing (and doing so willingly)...but something (someone) else was involved: the Holy Spirit.

During the first couple seconds from that transition from crying to hilarious laughter I was internally terrified...but then I realized this was from God. I did not hear anything audible, or receive visual images throughout this experience, but God was revealing to my mind and heart as this was going on why I was so incredibly amused: thoughts began to run through my head just as directly and mysteriously as the laughter had started: how amazingly ridiculous, hilarious and profoundly silly it all was that Satan actually thought he had bested GOD - the maker, provider, sustainer and sovereign controller of the whole universe, including over demons and angels - that he could actually possibly DEFEAT Him. That this could even be a hypothetical reality was too much. For the first time in my life, the conviction hit me that the Cross was not only the greatest tragedy ever scripted, but the greatest and most deeply profound COMEDY ever composed in the history of the universe: God defeated Satan by allowing Satan to "defeat" Him, and to compound the comedy, Satan (a creature) actually believed he could accomplish this.

I was laughing so hard that I literally lost my breath and had to come up gasping for air, then just when I thought I had a brief respite, I was pulled into laughter again (totally out of my control, but not against my will). This happened four or five times. The uncontrollable aspect of it miraculously stopped right before my boss walked back in the door...yet it took an hour or so for it to completely wear off. Off and on I was quietly chuckling to myself for the next hour or so, and then it finally stopped. But that inward peace stayed with me for the rest of that day.

There was a demonic aspect to this experience, but not a negative one. During this occurrence of uncontrollable laughter it was revealed to me that my laughter was not just the joy of the Spirit (I could literally feel something stirring around in my chest making me laugh), or even the humor that comes from the simplicity and humility inherent in the Son's act of becoming man and suffering for the Church: I knew I was mocking Satan. I also knew that Satan was angry, and I received a very strong sense that he was, at that moment, aware and angry about what was happening. Yet I experienced no direct demonic attacks.

The two greatest theological lessons God taught me in that brief window of time was this:

(1) The Cross was Comedy, not just Tragedy.
(2) Laughter is an important and necessary aspect of Spiritual Warfare

[MoNiCa4316]

TrueHope, rainbowbright, and Monica4316,

I found your posts to be very encouraging, as our family is also under spiritual attack. Thanks for sharing your experiences.

Shig

:wave: You and your family are in my prayers :hug:
God bless!

monica

[MoNiCa4316]

Paleodoxy, that's very interesting, thanks for sharing! :) I've never seen it quite that way before. Indeed, it's ridiculous that the devil thought he had defeated God! That he, a mere creature, could kill the Maker of life. Your post has reminded me of an experience I once had....I was going through a time of doubt, and was feeling very spiritually attacked. I was doubting if God really wanted to forgive me, and felt condemned because of my sin...I read in the Bible that there is no condemnation for those in Christ, and I know that the Holy Spirit convicts us of sin but also offers forgiveness if we repent. But I was feeling like there was absolutely no hope for me. I also had evil thoughts and didn't know how to get rid of them. This lasted for several days, and by the end I felt I had no more strength left, I was soo tired. I was ready to give up, and just cried out to God to help me.

I was given the knowledge that these thoughts are from demons...I don't know what made me do it, but suddenly I just shouted something alone the lines of "satan, you are destined to lose! This was is not yet over, but no matter what you do, God will win and He has already defeated you by the Cross!" It suddenly hit me what I was saying...that the devil is trying to destroy God and His church but by doing that, is actually heading towards his own destruction. There is no possibility of him winning, and yet he's still trying. he was probably happy when Christ died, imagine his suprise when He rose again and triumphed over death, and now lives for ever and ever! I started praising God for that. Suddenly I just felt so much joy, and a sense of God's certain victory....and then I felt like the enemy was really, really angry. But I felt the Holy Spirit so strong in me that he could not attack me any more. I started praying to God and felt His peace all around me...it was so amazing! He comforted me, let me know that I am forgiven, and that He completely understands me. This whole experience brought me so much closer to Him. That same day I was given a lot of guidance on how to deal with my situation, and everything just felt so clear...it was like awaking from a dream.

What I also learned from this experience is that demons really hate it when we worship and praise God with faith...often when I am feeling spiritually attacked I just make myself focus on God instead of demons, and start thanking Him for everything and declaring His power, love, and glory. When you're in the middle of a spiritual battle, don't try to figure it all out because the devil will just confuse your thoughts....focus on God, not on yourself...and just praise Him. This works for me, and the enemy leaves me alone.

Right now, I'm feeling so sad for people who are living in darkness...because they are unknowingly progressing towards the same fate as the devil and his demons....but the solution is right in front of them!! Jesus is longing to show them His love and forgiveness, and is offering them the free gift of eternal life...I can't imagine how He must feel, looking at these lost ones that He died to save. I still don't understand how it happened that I turned to God...surely by His grace! I'm just so thankful. Praise God that we all know Him! The enemy doesn't even stand a chance.

God bless!

monica

[TrueHope]

You must spread some Reputation around before giving it to MoNiCa4316 again.

[Chocolatesa]

These are some incredible stories.

I have never spoken of it until now, but I had a very special experience in late August (a positive one). This was literally days prior to my first catechumen class and only weeks after officially determining to become Orthodox. I suppose I haven't shared it because it was such an intimate experience that I considered keeping it between me and God, but after viewing this thread, I'd like to share it as a means of encouragement, and esp. if it may have any potential for strengthening the faith of even just one person here.

Periodically throughout my life, I have been struck by the "foolishness" of the Cross. This happened in a much more powerful way for the first time in my life that day. Prior to that day, I cannot say that I've ever had what I would call a divine or spiritual encounter. In fact, having spent my whole life in churches that virtually denied the continuation of the more "supernatural" of the spiritual gifts, this event was quite a statement! Of course, I have observed the more sublte power, love and wisdom of the Spirit at work in me throughout the years, but nothing like a direct spiritual encounter.

I was sitting alone at the computer doing some work (writing a report or something) one weekday afternoon at the office. The boss had gone out to take care of errands, and the secretary was out of the office, so I was juggling a couple of tasks simultaneously (though it was a very quiet day, as far as the phones go).

My mind started to wander as I stopped to consider the utter foolishness of the idea of the God of the universe caring enough about us to condescend to our human level in order to save us wretches. To actually take on a human body and share in our sufferings, griefs, physical weaknesses and spiritual trials - for who? Miserable sinners utterly undeserving of His mercy. Why?

This is when the strangest (yet most wonderful thing) occurred: I began to cry (with joy), but no sooner had I started crying when something took control over me and immediately converted it into utter hilarity and amusement. I was literally cracking up, and at first this shocked and surprised me because it was so contrary to the emotion I was having seconds before, and there was no prior warning of this conversion to amusement. Yet at the same time, in some mysterious, inexplicable way, while it was not at all my own doing, I cannot say that it occurred against my will. In other words, I certainly was not possessed by something else. It was me laughing (and doing so willingly)...but something (someone) else was involved: the Holy Spirit.

During the first couple seconds from that transition from crying to hilarious laughter I was internally terrified...but then I realized this was from God. I did not hear anything audible, or receive visual images throughout this experience, but God was revealing to my mind and heart as this was going on why I was so incredibly amused: thoughts began to run through my head just as directly and mysteriously as the laughter had started: how amazingly ridiculous, hilarious and profoundly silly it all was that Satan actually thought he had bested GOD - the maker, provider, sustainer and sovereign controller of the whole universe, including over demons and angels - that he could actually possibly DEFEAT Him. That this could even be a hypothetical reality was too much. For the first time in my life, the conviction hit me that the Cross was not only the greatest tragedy ever scripted, but the greatest and most deeply profound COMEDY ever composed in the history of the universe: God defeated Satan by allowing Satan to "defeat" Him, and to compound the comedy, Satan (a creature) actually believed he could accomplish this.

I was laughing so hard that I literally lost my breath and had to come up gasping for air, then just when I thought I had a brief respite, I was pulled into laughter again (totally out of my control, but not against my will). This happened four or five times. The uncontrollable aspect of it miraculously stopped right before my boss walked back in the door...yet it took an hour or so for it to completely wear off. Off and on I was quietly chuckling to myself for the next hour or so, and then it finally stopped. But that inward peace stayed with me for the rest of that day.

There was a demonic aspect to this experience, but not a negative one. During this occurrence of uncontrollable laughter it was revealed to me that my laughter was not just the joy of the Spirit (I could literally feel something stirring around in my chest making me laugh), or even the humor that comes from the simplicity and humility inherent in the Son's act of becoming man and suffering for the Church: I knew I was mocking Satan. I also knew that Satan was angry, and I received a very strong sense that he was, at that moment, aware and angry about what was happening. Yet I experienced no direct demonic attacks.

The two greatest theological lessons God taught me in that brief window of time was this:

(1) The Cross was Comedy, not just Tragedy.
(2) Laughter is an important and necessary aspect of Spiritual Warfare

Personally I'm wary of experiences by the Holy Spirit after having read this http://www.orthodoxphotos.com/readings/sign/index.shtml
but I don't think it's not possible either.

[paleodoxy]

My personal experience had nothing to do with charismatic revivalism or tongues - in fact, I reject the charismatic revivialist movement. I am not one to look for or conjure spiritual experiences, either, which is why mine completely caught me by surprise.

I know for a fact that my experience was not demonic because of the fruits of it, and the spiritual benefit, strength and encouragement that I gained from it, as it confirmed me in my course to become Orthodox.

I also spoke with my SF about my experience, and he agrees it was a genuine (and positive) encounter.

[SeraphimSarov]

I also spoke with my SF about my experience, and he agrees it was a genuine (and positive) encounter.

It's probably foolish to argue with that. ;)

Thanks for sharing.

[JohnChapter14]

Here is something to consider:

Your a soldier of God, a spectacle to Angels, good and bad alike. Your putting down your armor and being cocky toward the enemy. Your looking at a roaring lion and asking him to devour you. Pretty stupid, eh?

[paleodoxy]

Well, in Justin's case, I can tell you exactly what the demons are going to do: nothing. If Justin is using his request as a means of "experiment" to see if demons really exist, they'll precisely do the opposite if it means shaking Justin's confidence.

[TrueHope]

Well, in Justin's case, I can tell you exactly what the demons are going to do: nothing. If Justin is using his request as a means of "experiment" to see if demons really exist, they'll precisely do the opposite if it means shaking Justin's confidence.
They definitely won't do what he is expecting of them, but they aren't gone. You don't invite demons into your mind without paying serious consequences after. Plus, he has other issues in his life that they have been working on for a long time, which led him up to doing such a dummy move.

[Breaking Babylon]

Ever heard of the old frog boiling in the water story? It applies. Jump out while you can.

Of course, that probably just makes you raise an eyebrow or scoff to yourself, Isaac is too cryptic, Isaac just wants to seem like he knows something, he's just answering how he's supposed to. That would be further evidence of your personal delusion. It's true that you've been dealing with demons for a long time, to the point of where you just aren't used to life without them. You can't see them right in front you. One of the best points made in this thread was that you're dealing with entities that are very cunning, who trick even very holy people, and who's mission is to both destroy souls and do it obliviously to the world.

Are you kidding, man? Your carnal eyes can't see them, and you should thank God for that, otherwise you'd be terrified. Your spiritual eyes can't notice them because they're directed inwards towards yourself, exactly where they want you to have them. Again, focus your sight on God, embrace a holy life, and ignore the demons if you want a true reaction.

All you did when you invited those demons into yourself was audibly confess that they're a part of you already. All you did when you removed your cross was revoke your faith in Christ and ask that His grace and protection leave you. All you did when you showed such interest in them was fall into the sin of Adam and the foolishness of blasphemy. And all you do now is let them further corrode you, because I'm nearly convinced that this post will fall on deaf ears and you'll continue to be a plaything of all things demonic.

Only the faithless need an outward sign, and you know that. Don't be so foolish Justin.

[Theophorus]

This sounds ridiculous, but I tried it. LOL :P I invited demons into my mind, body, and soul last night before bed. I even took off my cross in case that would deter them. :P Nothing happened overnight and nothing has happened today. And I said it in my min and I even invited them with actual words. But nothing. I'm gonna give it another day or two before I totally conclude that demons don't exist.

That's about the stupidest thing I have ever heard. Congratulations on being the biggest d__b_ss of the year.

[JohnChapter14]

Ever heard of the old frog boiling in the water story? It applies. Jump out while you can.

Of course, that probably just makes you raise an eyebrow or scoff to yourself, Isaac is too cryptic, Isaac just wants to seem like he knows something, he's just answering how he's supposed to. That would be further evidence of your personal delusion. It's true that you've been dealing with demons for a long time, to the point of where you just aren't used to life without them. You can't see them right in front you. One of the best points made in this thread was that you're dealing with entities that are very cunning, who trick even very holy people, and who's mission is to both destroy souls and do it obliviously to the world.

Are you kidding, man? Your carnal eyes can't see them, and you should thank God for that, otherwise you'd be terrified. Your spiritual eyes can't notice them because they're directed inwards towards yourself, exactly where they want you to have them. Again, focus your sight on God, embrace a holy life, and ignore the demons if you want a true reaction.

All you did when you invited those demons into yourself was audibly confess that they're a part of you already. All you did when you removed your cross was revoke your faith in Christ and ask that His grace and protection leave you. All you did when you showed such interest in them was fall into the sin of Adam and the foolishness of blasphemy. And all you do now is let them further corrode you, because I'm nearly convinced that this post will fall on deaf ears and you'll continue to be a plaything of all things demonic.

Only the faithless need an outward sign, and you know that. Don't be so foolish Justin.

amen

[Vasileios]

Not really comfortable with uncontrollable laughter.

Not really comfortable with the Cross being called Comedy and I am very much aware of all definitions of Comedy.

I have no comments for paleo's story and I have no right to object to something his SF has said but I needed to say these two things.

Forgive me.

[paleodoxy]

Judge the tree by its fruits (effects).

[TrueHope]

I think I understood what he meant, but I deleted my post anyways...

[Vessel Of Mercy]

Maybe the demons caused the idea to test their existence to enter into your mind in the first place.

That's like a blind man turning on the light switch to test whether light exists.

Edit: I should have read the zillions of other, wiser comments before I said something.

[MoNiCa4316]

Maybe the demons caused the idea to test their existence to enter into your mind in the first place.

That's like a blind man turning on the light switch to test whether light exists.

:thumbsup:

[TrueHope]

Maybe the demons caused the idea to test their existence to enter into your mind in the first place.

That's like a blind man turning on the light switch to test whether light exists.

Edit: I should have read the zillions of other, wiser comments before I said something.
Your response was very wise!!!!

[Shubunkin]

Justin, have you ever thought that the reason you didn't notice them going into you was because they were already there?

A part of the Chrismation is also an exorcism in the ceremony. I felt a heavy oppression lift after this. I was a Christian for 41 years, now, and it was very surprising to me.

[SaintMarina]

Justin, have you ever thought that the reason you didn't notice them going into you was because they were already there?

cygne, that is truly a scary thought.:eek:

[SaintMarina]

Prayers for you Justin. :)

[SeraphimSarov]

I've seen him lurking on this thread -- why in the world hasn't he said anything about all of this?

[Komnenos]

I've seen him lurking on this thread -- why in the world hasn't he said anything about all of this?
Hes probably enjoying the "debate"

[Protoevangel]

Yes, it's all about a little boy who wants attention.

[Protoevangel]

By the way, that little boy who wants attention is very loved here, as the response to his stupid, idiotic stunt should make clear.

We love you, and only want the best for you. It would be nice to know that you appreciate the love at least a little. So Justin, if you ever want some attention, maybe next time you can try to come up with something a little less moronic than a halfhearted suicide attempt or playing with demons. Grow up, just a little bit, OK?

[TrueHope]

By the way, that little boy who wants attention is very loved here, as the response to his stupid, idiotic stunt should make clear.

We love you, and only want the best for you. It would be nice to know that you appreciate the love at least a little. So Justin, if you ever want some attention, maybe next time you can try to come up with something a little less moronic than a halfhearted suicide attempt or playing with demons. Grow up, just a little bit, OK?
I ditto what he said. This comes from a woman, whom when was young was so messed up that I tried the stupidest things for attention. And paid dearly.

You, young man, are lucky to have these faceless ;)words on a screen care so much about you to scold you as if you are our very own child!!!! :crosseo: (I wish I had been so lucky)

[SeraphimSarov]

I find it insulting that he has not said anything after all these people have tried to show him the love of Christ. I'm beginning to think he is messing with us all... :(

[The Princess Bride]

This sounds ridiculous, but I tried it. LOL :P I invited demons into my mind, body, and soul last night before bed. I even took off my cross in case that would deter them. :P Nothing happened overnight and nothing has happened today. And I said it in my min and I even invited them with actual words. But nothing. I'm gonna give it another day or two before I totally conclude that demons don't exist.
Nah, they probably realized your just a boy who still has cooties and decided to stay far away.....:P

But in all seriousness, WHY do you think that by inviting demons you could disprove their existence?

By believing that they dont', you would fall into being decieved by the father of lies himself. Is that really something you want to do?:scratch: