THE DANGER OF ANGER & UNFORGIVENESS
One of the leading causes of demonizing is unconfessed anger. Anger includes any form of unforgiveness, bitterness, hate, jealousy, gossip, criticism, etc. Paul says these can “give the devil a foothold” (Ephesians 4:26-27). He tells the Corinthians that if they don’t forgive each other Satan will use that to “outwit” them (2 Corinthians 2:10-11). Jesus Himself said that those who don’t forgive others will be turned over to tormenting demons to bring them to repentance (Matthew 18:34). This includes anger toward others, parents self or God. There can be no removing demons which claim this access to work against you until all your anger is truly confessed and put under the blood of Jesus. This is one of the first things that usually comes up when we counsel people and pray for their deliverance. Do NOT take this lightly!
Satan organizes his demons in the same manner God has angels organized – in a military-like structure. These are similar to generals, colonels, majors, lieutenants, sergeants, corporals, privates, etc. (Ephesians 6:12). Usually a “strong man” (or ruler) is assigned to a task, and he has lesser demons under his command to help in the work (Matthew 12:25-29; Daniel 10:2-6, 12-14). The names of these demons usually refer to their work (“Fear,” “Anger,” “Lust,” “Pride,” “Deception,” etc.).
Remember that sinful anger comes from mishandling hurt and pain. Instead of feeling it as hurt we turn it into anger. Demons are behind and use anger, too. They made Saul angry at David, so much so that he tried to kill him (I Samuel 18:10-11; 19:9-10). Paul shows the close connection between anger and demonizing (Ephesians 4:27).
Willfully allowing anger to remain is like asking Satan’s forces to fill you with hate and bitterness. It is a prayer, a curse on the one you hate. It Is taking God’s work in your hands, for revenge belongs only to God (Romans 12:19). Often the name of the demon who answers this ‘prayer’ to Satan is “Anger,” for that is the work he does in those he influences. Unchecked this leads to wrath and rage. That is not something God’s children should ever have!
Below is a prayer you can use in connection with this.
“Dear heavenly Father, I thank You for the riches of Your kindness, forbearance, and patience, knowing that Your kindness has led me to repentance (Romans 2:4). I confess that I have not extended that same patience and kindness toward others who have offended me, but instead I have harbored bitterness and resentment. I pray that during this time of self-examination You would bring to mind only those people that I have not forgiven in order that I may do so (Matthew 18:35). I also pray that if I have offended others you would bring to mind only those people from whom I need to seek forgiveness and the extent to which I need to seek it (Matthew 5:23-24). I ask this in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.
James 1:20 “The anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
One of the best ways to get rid of unforgiveness is to make a list of all the people who have hurt you and a short summary of what they did. Then take this before God and one by one ask God to help you forgive them.
by Rev. Dr. Jerry Schmoyer, Christian Training Organization