In the Christian walk, it is essential to recognize that the enemy cannot gain access to our lives unless there is an open door—a gap, an unguarded moment, or a space unoccupied by the presence of God. Jesus, in Matthew 12:43-45, taught that when an unclean spirit leaves a person, it seeks rest elsewhere. If it finds the place empty and unoccupied, it returns with others, making the condition worse than before. This sobering reality reminds us of the need to stay vigilant and submitted to God.
Submitting to God: The Foundation of Resistance
The Apostle James provides a clear roadmap for spiritual warfare: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). Submission to God closes doors to the enemy and ensures that no space in our hearts or lives is left vulnerable.
We must ask ourselves:
• Are my thoughts, words, or actions giving the enemy permission to re-enter?
• Are there unresolved issues in my relationships, especially within my marriage or home, that may be leaving gaps for the enemy to exploit?
The Apostle Paul cautions against giving the devil any foothold (Ephesians 4:27). This means examining our lives for hidden sins, bitterness, or desires that stray from God’s will.
Spiritual Authority: Taking a Stand
As believers, we are empowered to take authority over every spirit that seeks to influence our lives wrongly. Jesus declared, “I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you” (Luke 10:19).
In your home, your relationships, and your interactions, declare boldly:
• “I will not come under the influence of any wrong spirit in the Name of Jesus.”
• “I bind every spirit that is not of God and refuse to respond to it.”
The Dangers of Sexual Sin
Sexual sin, in particular, is a door that exposes many to spiritual attack. Scripture repeatedly warns about its destructive nature:
• “Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body” (1 Corinthians 6:18).
• “You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14).
God’s Word calls us to a life of purity and holiness. Jesus raised the standard by teaching that even lustful thoughts are equivalent to committing adultery in the heart (Matthew 5:27-28). Such sins not only defile the body but also grieve the Holy Spirit, whose temple we are (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Closing the Gaps: Practical Steps
1. Examine Your Relationships
Reflect on your interactions with others. Are there unhealthy attachments or unresolved issues that could become footholds for the enemy?
2. Confess and Repent
Bring your sins before God. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
3. Renew Your Mind
Saturate your thoughts with God’s Word. Romans 12:2 encourages us to “be transformed by the renewal of your mind.”
4. Pray with Specificity
General prayers are good, but addressing specific issues allows you to target areas where the enemy seeks to attack. For example, declare:
• “Lord, I break every stronghold of lust, pride, or unforgiveness in my life.”
• “I declare purity and holiness over my mind, heart, and body.”
5. Guard Your Heart and Home
Proverbs 4:23 says, “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” Ensure that what you allow into your home—through media, conversations, or relationships—aligns with God’s Word.
Meditate on These Scriptures
The Bible is a powerful tool in resisting the enemy and closing doors to sin. Reflect on these verses:
• “Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways; do not stray into her paths” (Proverbs 7:25).
• “Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry” (Colossians 3:5).
• “Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving” (Ephesians 5:4).
Conclusion
Your life is not just your own—it is a vessel meant for God’s glory. By walking in obedience, staying vigilant, and relying on God’s power, you can close every door to the enemy. Remember, “The Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one” (2 Thessalonians 3:3).
Take heart and stand firm. The victory is already yours in Christ Jesus.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
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