Evil rarely forces its way into a life; more often, it’s invited through the choices we make and the desires we entertain. Scripture teaches that temptation begins within us—long before the devil ever takes advantage of it. James 1:14 reminds us that “each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.”
Sin starts small, as a thought or an indulgence, but once entertained, it grows until it brings death. The heart, left unchecked, can deceive us into believing compromise is harmless. Jeremiah 17:9 says it plainly: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?”
Sin rarely happens overnight. A thought becomes a conversation, a conversation becomes a habit, and soon the soul is entangled in darkness. Demonic influence often begins at this point—not with possession, but persuasion. Once we entertain sin, we grant access to spiritual forces eager to pull us further from God’s light.
Many people today fall into the enemy’s snares simply because they are unaware of his tactics. The Bible warns that Satan disguises himself as an angel of light, making what is evil appear harmless, even appealing. We see this deception woven into popular culture—occult themes in movies, books, and games that seem innocent but open the heart to dark influences. Even practices like celebrating Halloween, engaging with tarot cards, or keeping occult symbols in the home can invite spiritual oppression. Scripture cautions, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8).
Another subtle trap is unforgiveness. When we hold grudges or refuse to release someone who has wronged us, we create a foothold for Satan to operate in our lives. Paul wrote, “Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices” (2 Cor. 2:11). A bitter heart invites torment, but forgiveness releases peace and restores divine protection.
The surest defense against deception is God’s Word. Psalm 119:11 declares, “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” A heart filled with Scripture is guarded by truth. The more time we spend reading and meditating on God’s Word, the more our minds are renewed and aligned with His will (Rom. 12:2). When temptation comes, we can respond as Jesus did in the wilderness—by speaking God’s truth until the enemy flees.
God’s commands are not meant to restrict us but to protect us. They lead us into blessing, health, and spiritual maturity. When we ignore His Word, we drift into confusion; when we embrace it, we find clarity, freedom, and life. Living in obedience keeps the hedge of protection strong around us. As Ecclesiastes 10:8 warns, “He who breaks through a wall may be bitten by a serpent.”
Victory over darkness begins with a heart fully surrendered to God. “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). A life of constant repentance, quick forgiveness, and obedience keeps the door to evil firmly closed. As David wrote, “I will set no wicked thing before my eyes… I will delight myself in Your commandments” (Ps. 101:3; 119:47).
Guard your heart and your home. Be mindful of what you watch, what you entertain, and what you allow into your spirit. Fill your life with worship, prayer, and the Word of God. When we live in the light, the darkness has no place to hide.
Ask yourself: Am I willing to change, cleanse my life of any darkness, and make the Bible the final authority in my life? True freedom begins there.
Bill Wiese is the author of New York Times best selling book, 23 Minutes In Hell, the story of his life–changing visit to hell in 1998. Bill has since authored six additional book titles, and continues to share his experience around the world. He and his wife Annette founded Soul Choice Ministries in late 2006 and have dedicated their lives to reaching the unsaved.
