Spirits

The word “spirits” comes from the Latin word spiritus which means breath or wind (https://thebeerexchange.io/why-alcohol-is-called-spirits/). Alchemists were the first to distill alcohol for medicinal purposes. In the process, they would capture the vapor released during fermentation, but the term “spirits” in reference to alcohol is actually attributed to Aristotle (https://vinepair.com/articles/why-liquor-called-spirits/). Civilizations in history credited magic or spirits for the intoxicating effects of alcohol consumption as well. There are many world religions that still recognize the presence and activity of invisible beings. Many churches in America talk about angels, some mention satan, but few discuss the myriads of demons that participate with the enemy of our souls.

In the book of Mark, chapter 5, we read about a man who lived in tombs and was always crying out and cutting himself. When Jesus asked the name of the unclean spirit, the response was, “My name is Legion, for we are many” (Mark 5:9). How did the demons get inside that man? We don’t know. The Bible doesn’t tell us, but we do know the man was relieved to be free of Legion.

In another portion of Scripture, Jesus healed a man who couldn’t walk. After this miracle, Jesus said to the man, “See, you are well again. Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you” (John 5:14). Yes, our sinful choices are bad, but the consequences are much worse. Our sins leave the front door of our soul open. When we are asleep, spiritual speaking, our enemy sees the open door, and walks right in… or sends his demons in. Is it, then, unreasonable to think a person who indulges in alcoholic spirits is actually demon possessed? Hollywood, in all honesty, was more helpful to demons than to us. From the movies, I expected demon possession to look like a dirty, green faced little girl with a gift for contortion. In my experience, though, demon possession has looked like an ex-husband, an ex-brother-in-law, a friend, people I love. Demon possession hasn’t been scary for me. It’s been heartbreaking…literally.

Jesus healed a boy possessed with demons in Mark 9. His disciples couldn’t help the boy, but Jesus did. When asked why they were not effective, Jesus told his disciples, “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting” (Mark 9:29 NKJV). God’s response implies there are multiple kinds, and that the same method will not work for each kind.

As I pray for loved ones, remembering Mark 9:29 is beneficial to me. This verse protects me from losing hope, losing faith, and giving up. I know all things are in God’s loving hands, but our Lord gave his Word to help mankind. He gave Scripture to teach and empower. If my regular prayers aren’t working, maybe I need to dig deeper, listen to God instead of talking at him, or study how he taught his disciples to handle the situation. I am not powerless. I am free now because I have THE Spirit, not just spirits. I will keep digging, keep listening, and keep praying that others will close their doors to spirits and receive THE Spirit as well!

Wine produces mockers; alcohol leads to brawls. Those led astray by drink cannot be wise.

Proverbs 20:1 NLT