Unclean Spirit

Matthew  12:43 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.  12:44 Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.  12:45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.

Jesus uses a parable to illustrate the reality of spiritual warfare. He describes an unclean spirit that is cast out of a person. However, this spirit does not disappear; it seeks to return to the place it was once evicted from.

This highlights the fact that when we make efforts to rid ourselves of negative influences or sinful behaviours, the enemy doesn't give up easily. We must remain watchful and prayerful, recognizing that the battle continues.

The Empty House:
Consider the imagery of the empty house mentioned in the parable. When the unclean spirit returns to the empty house, it finds it unoccupied and ready for occupancy.

This signifies the void left within us when we remove negative influences from our lives. Just as an empty house can be vulnerable to invasion, an unguarded heart can be susceptible to further attacks. If we do not intentionally fill our hearts with God's Word, prayer, and positive influences, we risk allowing negative forces to return and take hold.

Escalation of Evil:
The parable also emphasizes the escalation of evil. The unclean spirit returns with seven others more wicked than itself. This progression teaches us a critical lesson about the nature of sin.

When we indulge in one sinful behaviour, it often opens the door for more serious and harmful actions. It's a slippery slope that can lead to spiritual decay and bondage. We must be vigilant in addressing negative behaviours early, seeking God's grace to overcome them.

Repentance and Transformation:
This parable underscores the importance of genuine repentance. It's not enough to merely cast out unclean spirits or eliminate sinful behaviours. We must actively turn toward God in heartfelt repentance and seek His transformation in our lives. Our aim should be not just the absence of evil, but the presence of God's goodness and love filling every corner of our hearts.

In conclusion, let us remember that we are engaged in a spiritual battle that requires our constant attention. The lesson from Matthew 12:43-45 reminds us that removing negative influences is only the beginning. We must diligently fill our hearts with God's truth, guard against the return of destructive behaviours, and rely on His strength to resist the escalation of evil.

May we find courage and hope in the promise that Jesus is greater than any unclean spirit, and through Him, we can experience true freedom and transformation.

Let us be a people who continually seek God's presence, allowing His light to shine in the darkest corners of our hearts. By His grace, we can overcome the challenges that come our way and emerge as vessels of His love and redemption in this world.

God bless you.

Prayer key :

1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of today in Jesus Christ name.

2. Lord, cast out every unclean spirit, evil and bad behaviours, and sinful acts from my life in Jesus Christ name.

3. Lord, fill my heart with your spirit, and let the fruit of the spirit be evidence in my life in Jesus Christ name.

4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.