Flesh or Demons: What’s Really at War Within You?
Are You Fighting the Right Battle?
There’s a battle happening all around us—one that’s been raging since the dawn of time. It’s not fought with swords or shields, but in the unseen realm where the destiny of every soul is at stake. This battle began in the Garden of Eden when humanity’s perfect relationship with God was broken. Since that moment, two powerful forces have been at work in our lives: the sinful nature (the flesh) and demonic influence.
But here’s the question—when we’re struggling, how do we know what we’re really up against? Is it the weakness of our own flesh leading us down the wrong path, or is it something darker, something spiritual, actively seeking to gain control? Understanding the difference is not just important—it’s essential.
The Struggle Within: Flesh or Spirit?
Every human being is born with a sinful nature—a tendency toward rebellion against God. As Paul explains in Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” This sinful nature, often referred to as “the flesh,” isn’t about our physical bodies. It’s the carnal mind, the part of us that craves selfish control, pride, and everything contrary to God’s will.
Whether translated as “the flesh,” “the sinful nature,” or “the old self,” the message is clear: left unchecked, this fallen nature keeps us separated from God. And while sin is universal, not every sinful act automatically opens the door to demonic oppression. Yet, sin and demons often work hand in hand. Demons prey on our weaknesses, exploiting sinful behavior as an opportunity to take hold.
When Demons Exploit Weakness
Imagine the human body as a fortress. A healthy immune system fights off invading viruses, but when weakened, it leaves the body vulnerable. Spiritually, it’s no different. When we’re spiritually weak—whether through sin, trauma, or neglect—our defenses are down, making us vulnerable to demonic attack. Demons are like spiritual pathogens, constantly seeking an open door through sin or unhealed wounds to establish a foothold.
But not all spiritual struggles stem from demonic influence. Sometimes, the battle is simply against our own flesh, and the solution for each is radically different.
The Right Remedy for the Right Battle
For the Flesh: Crucifixion
Our sinful nature cannot be negotiated with, reformed, or suppressed—it must be crucified. Paul makes this clear in Galatians 5:24, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” This is not a one-time event, but a daily act of surrender where we allow the Spirit of Christ to take control, saying with Paul, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me…” (Galatians 2:20).
For Demons: Casting Out
Demons, however, cannot be crucified. They must be confronted and cast out in the name of Jesus. Throughout Scripture, Jesus and His disciples demonstrated that the only effective solution for demonic oppression is to expel them through the authority of His name. Mark 16:17 reminds us, “In My name they will cast out demons.”
Discerning the Source of the Battle
One of the greatest mistakes we can make is applying the wrong solution to the problem. You can’t crucify a demon, and you can’t cast out the flesh. To overcome, we need spiritual discernment—asking the Holy Spirit to reveal whether the root of the struggle is sin or demonic influence. The Holy Spirit is faithful to lead us into all truth (John 16:13).
When it’s sin, repentance and crucifixion of the flesh are required. But when demons have gained access—through sin, trauma, or even generational curses—we must identify the entry point, repent, close the door, and cast them out. Once a demon departs at our authority in Jesus, we must surrender that area to the Lordship of Jesus and ask Him to fill and rule in us.
Closing the Door and Walking in Freedom
Victory comes when we partner with the Holy Spirit to correctly diagnose the source of the battle. Whether it’s the flesh that needs to be crucified or a demon that needs to be expelled, the authority of Jesus Christ gives us the power to overcome both. By keeping our spiritual defenses strong through prayer, worship, planting God’s Word in our hearts, and obedience—we guard our hearts and minds against future attacks.
So, what’s your battle?
Is it the flesh pulling you away from God’s best, or is it a spiritual enemy trying to take ground? Recognize the source, apply the right remedy, and step into the freedom that Jesus has already won for you.
With God, nothing is impossible!
God bless you,
Dale and Paula Black
