How Do We Deal with Familiar Spirits?

In 2010, I wrote a post describing what the Bible has to say about  familiar spirits. 

Recently, I've been seeing questions wondering how we as Christians should deal with the issue of familiar spirits. First, it's important to understand what the Bible has to say about the identity of familiar spirits.

Scripture identifies familiar spirits as demons (fallen angels) which can empower human beings with supernatural ability (Acts 16:16-19 NIV). Familiar spirits are the source of power behind all forms of magick, witchcraft, sorcery, enchantments, and any activity which falls under the umbrella of the occult.

(Familiar/demonic spirits can also oppress human beings.)

As Christians, we need to be aware of the spiritual battle which wages in the unseen world around us. We are drawn into this battle through temptation and spiritual attack by the enemy.This is a reality we don't need to overemphasize (ie: blaming every bad or difficult situation on demonic spirits) but acknowledge with wisdom and discernment.

The original question is "How do we deal with familiar (demonic) spirits?" The answer is found in Ephesians 6:10-20 (NLT)

"A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God’s ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should."

As we can see from these verses, God has equipped us to stand firm in the spiritual battle we find ourselves in. When we accept JESUS as Savior and Lord, we are given the authority of His name—which familiar/demonic spirits are compelled to obey (Mark 16:17 NLT). We don't want to give the enemy too much credit or dismiss him entirely, but we also have no reason to be fearful.

Dealing with familiar/demonic spirits as a Christian means we always remember who we serve.

God is our strength and shield (Psalm 28:7 NLT). He walks beside us (Psalm 23:4 NIV) even when we are not aware of presence.He is faithful to keep His promises, We are called to stand firm in the authority of Jesus name, not giving into fear. We can stand boldly in power, love, and self control.

Escaping the Cauldron is an informative memoir and Bible study, offering one woman's unique perspective on Christianity, the occult, and God's saving grace. The book is now available for PRE-ORDER on Amazon.