Finding the Light in Mental IllnessParaugs

DAY 3

POSSESSED

Thank you for coming back today, as we are on day three of our study on mental illness. So far this week, we have come to understand our conflicting feelings between the demonic activity the mind experiences and the godly forces within our heart that can place a mental strain on our emotions. These trials are our opportunity to prove our heart’s desire for the Lord.

Yesterday, we studied about Jesus’ early ministry. He exhibited authority as He taught, and a power filled the synagogue. This emotionally moved the crowd in amazement.

Today, we will continue reading as we learn what reaction Jesus’ authority receives.

Here is Mark 1:23-24:

23 Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an impure spirit cried out, 24 “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are —the Holy One of God!”

Once the crowd felt Jesus’ authority, it was almost immediately that this man spoke up. However, it wasn’t really the man that spoke, but the impure spirits that he was possessed by.

The Greek word used for possessed is en (pronounced how it looks, en), meaning with. The Greeks used this word for many different usages throughout Scripture, but as it is used here, with meant having, owning, or possessing.

As it translates into English, we can also understand en to mean take over or control. The man in the synagogue was controlled by an impure spirit. These demonic forces manipulating our thoughts can cause conflict within our godly hearts.

In closing today, I want you to understand that when Jesus is present in our lives, He has power in us. Not only can we feel it, but Satan knows it too. Just as in Scripture, when the impure spirits fear to be destroyed by Jesus in the synagogue, he will fear to be destroyed within you.

If you struggle with the conflict between the mind and the heart, I pray today for Jesus’ power to fill your soul so that you may feel peace and the enemy is frightened.

I look forward to studying with you tomorrow as we learn how Jesus responded in power to the man’s impure spirit.

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