Can Illness Have A Demonic Component?

Q

Can the illness of a Christian be caused by Demonic oppression? If so it could make a difference in how we pray for deliverance. I would like your take on this, especially in the light of Scripture. I have been suffering from a debilitating illness that has not really responded to my prayers or the many who are praying for me. Wondering if maybe this could be a cause.

A

For most of human history illnesses that didn’t respond to treatment were thought to have a demonic component. Only in the last couple of generation have people gotten away from that idea. From what you’re saying, I would suggest that you consider the possibility. Unresolved anger and the failure to forgive someone who has hurt you are two negative emotions that can give Satan access to us. See the parable of the unmerciful servant (Matt. 18:23-35) who was handed over to the jailer (Satan) for his refusal to forgive a fellow servant, and Paul’s admonition to not let the sun go down on our anger (Ephes. 4:26-27) because it can give the devil a foothold in our life as examples.