Dr. Helen Titilola OLOJEDE

Over the last few days, I listened to a podcast on Spiritual Warfare on Hallow (a Catholic app). The podcast was presented by Fr. Vincent Lampert, a Catholic exorcist. While listening to the series, something in particular struck me in the sixth session, and I was encouraged in my journey of faith. Beyond being struck and encouraged, it also made me realize the albeit, simple practices we can engage in, that drive the devil away from us. So here are some practical tips from Fr Lampert that can help us fend off the devil.

 

Oftentimes when people are experiencing demonic attacks they think they have to do something extraordinary to combat the devil. In reality, the very basics of our Catholic faith are what will keep the devil at bay. The number one priority of every Christian is to live in a permanent connection with Jesus Christ. It is by being connected with Him in and through the Church that we will best protect ourselves from the attacks of the Evil One.

 

As Catholics, please know that if you are going to Mass, reading the Bible, praying, and receiving the sacraments, the devil is already on the run. With that said the following practices should be observed by anyone who is experiencing the extraordinary or ordinary attacks of the devil: First and foremost, maintain fidelity to God. Don’t believe the lies of the devil that you have been abandoned by God. Remember that you are a child of God created in His image and likeness and that God has great unconditional love for you. As Psalm 23 reminds us: When walking through times of darkness God is at your side with His rod and staff to comfort you.

 

Second, be patient and exercise humility. Have confidence in the Holy Spirit, who will lead, guide, and direct you. Wherever the Holy Spirit is present, an unclean spirit cannot remain.

 

Third, take the initiative. Intensify certain spiritual practices that may assist us in confronting the devil’s attacks, such as: Regularly attend Mass and receive Holy Communion, Seek out a regular confessor for the Sacrament of Penance and go on a regular basis. Spend time in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. Incorporate Marian devotions into one’s daily routine, especially the rosary. Use Scripture for prayer and reflection (especially the prologue of John’s Gospel and the accounts of Jesus defeating the devil). As St. Jerome reminds us, “Ignorance of Scripture is Ignorance of Christ.” If we want to know Jesus, we must know His word.

 

I hope you find this useful as well. We shall continue from here next week.

May the Lord fend the devil away from us. Amen.