Before embarking on the transformative journey of self-deliverance, it is of utmost importance to embrace faith and acknowledge our shared human condition as sinners. Regardless of our religious background, it is vital to understand that there might be areas in our lives where we have allowed room for demonic oppression. However, the reassuring truth is that even a mustard seed-sized faith can move mountains and triumph over the forces of darkness.
As Jesus Himself proclaimed in Matthew 17:20, "Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." With faith as our guiding light, we can boldly step into the realm of self-deliverance, empowered by the divine authority granted to us by our loving Creator. Let's reflect on three powerful Bible verses that affirm this truth:
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Luke 10:19 - "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you."
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Mark 16:17-18 - "And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name, they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well."
- Romans 10:9-10 - "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved."
Now, let's delve into the five steps to self-deliverance, supported by scripture:
Step 1: Surrender and Give Your Life to the Lord
Scripture: Romans 12:1 - "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship."
Repeat these words: "Jesus, I believe you are Lord and the Son of God. I believe that you died on the cross and rose from the dead to rescue me from sin and death. I choose now to turn from my sins, my self-centeredness, and every part of my life that does not please you. I surrender to you."
Why is this important? Surrendering your life to the Lord is an act of acknowledging His lordship and submitting to His authority. You declare your faith in Jesus and express your desire to live according to His will.
Step 2: Forgive and Ask for Forgiveness
Scripture: Matthew 6:14-15 - "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."
Repeat these words: "I choose to forgive those who have harmed me, and I ask for your forgiveness for any ways I have hurt others."
Why is this important? Forgiveness is crucial in self-deliverance. Release any grudges or bitterness towards others, and seek forgiveness for any wrongs you have committed. This step clears the way for healing and freedom.
Step 3: Ask the Holy Spirit for Help
Scripture: John 14:26 - "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you."
Repeat these words: "Holy Spirit, I invite you to come and help me in this process of self-deliverance. Guide me, strengthen me, and reveal any areas that need healing and cleansing."
Why is this important? Recognizing the Holy Spirit as your helper is a source of guidance and wisdom. Seek His presence and power to assist you in the process of deliverance, relying on His wisdom and discernment.
Step 4: Repent or Renounce All Spirits by Name
Scripture: Acts 19:19 - "A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. When they calculated the value of the scrolls, the total came to fifty thousand drachmas."
Repeat these words: "I renounce the spirit of [specific spirit or demon name]. I reject its influence and authority over my life. You have no legal right to be here."
Why is this important? This will allow you to identify any specific spirits or demons that you need to renounce, such as the spirit of fear, lust, anger, or addiction. Declare your rejection of their influence and authority, affirming that they have no power over you.
Step 5: Command the Spirits to Leave by Name
Scripture: James 4:7 - "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
Repeat these words: "I command the spirit of [specific spirit or demon name] to come up and out and into the abyss, never to return in the name of Jesus. You must leave right now."
Why is this important? You need to take authority over the specific spirits or demons you have identified. Command them to leave in the name of Jesus, binding their influence and casting them out. Declare your freedom and assert that they have no place in your life.
As you embark on the path of self-deliverance, it is essential to remember that demons may manifest in different ways. Some may come out through your mouth or with a scream, as Acts 8:7 suggests. It is also crucial to understand that certain demons may only be cast out through prayer and fasting (Mark 9:29).
After the process of deliverance, it is vital to remain vigilant. As Luke 11:24-36 warns, an unclean spirit may return if the "house" is not kept clean and filled with the presence of God. Let us not be like a dog that returns to its vomit, as Proverbs 26:11 reminds us.
Through faith, repentance, and the power of God's Word, we can experience deliverance and walk in freedom from the bondage of evil. Remember to seek God's guidance and rely on His strength as you navigate the path of self-deliverance. Here are five practical ways you can be a good and faithful servant in your everyday life:
Cultivate a Daily Relationship with God: Spend time in prayer, study His Word, and seek His guidance in all areas of your life. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you and empower you to live a life that honors God.
Serve Others with Love and Compassion: Follow the example of Jesus who came not to be served but to serve. Look for opportunities to help and bless others, showing kindness, compassion, and selflessness.
Practice Forgiveness: Just as God forgave us, we should also forgive others. Let go of bitterness, resentment, and grudges, and extend forgiveness and grace to those who have wronged you.
Walk in Obedience to God's Word: Study and meditate on the Scriptures, and align your actions with God's commands. Obey His teachings and seek to live a life that is pleasing to Him.
Share the Good News: Spread the love and message of Christ to others. Share your testimony, invite others to church, and be a witness for Christ in both your words and actions.
Remember, being a good and faithful servant is not about perfection but about a heart that seeks to follow and serve God wholeheartedly. May you find joy and fulfillment in living as a faithful servant of the Lord, empowered by the Holy Spirit.