An important aspect of our five-session deliverance ministry process is the fifth session. During that time, we assess progress and also show the client how to stay free from demonic spirits when they return. We show them how to stayon the narrow road that leads to life (Matt 7:13-14).
One of the most elements of that teaching is the discussion about discerning, or seeing , the demonic spirits when they try to return to their old home. During the deliverance session, demons are kicked out but we know that they will try to return and bring evil buddies with them (Luke 11:24-26).
The challenge for each of us is to be able to see these spirits. Sadly, there has been very little teaching or familiarization in the church with the spiritual gift of discerning of (or distinguishing between) spirits (1 Cor 12:10).
We believe and teach that all can have this gift and that God desires us to see and know the enemy’s (demonic kingdom) plans in advance. So.. how do we “see” demonic spirits. Many clients and seminar attendees will say, somewhat timidly at times for fear of ridicule, that they have seen demons with their physical eyes. Clearly, angelic beings appeared to people in Scripture and likewise many have seen them even today. However, we believe the best understanding or discerning of demonic spirits happens as we are able to gain control of our thought lives.
Discerning of Spirits is a Vital Spiritual Gift
The reality is that demonic spirits, whether in the soul or outside, have the ability to put thoughts in our mind. That is typically the most tangible evidence we see, as these spirits remind us of past sins or abuses and transgressions done against us. As we are able to take thoughts captive quickly (2 Cor 10:5) and think clearly about what we are thinking about, this discernment will allow us to take proper actions to keep the entry points closed as these spirits seek to return.
How does this work? As an example, let’s say a person is continually getting thoughts about what their mother did to them as a child. If they have forgiven their mother as part of the deliverance preparation process, then they can rise up, in the Spirit, and declare to that demonic spirit bringing the memory that they have forgiven their mother and for that spirit to leave now, in Jesus name. The key is capturing the thought, discerning the source (very likely, but not always demonic) and acting accordingly.
This is a very real and valid way of “seeing” demonic spirits rather than expecting some sort of physical manifestation before our natural eyes. The church needs to understand and know their enemy to wage warfare effectively and discerning spirits is one of God’s gifts to his children.
