ALTAR COUNSELOR'S GUIDE

caused by a violation of natural laws, such as not eating properly or drinking badwater. Some illness is also chastisement. One King in the Bible who did not giveglory to God was stricken with intestinal worms and died!2. Mental Oppression: Disturbances in the mind or thought life such as mentaltorment, confusion, doubt, loss of memory, etc. Restlessness, inability to reasonor listen to others, abnormal talkativeness or reserve may be exhibited.All mental problems are not caused by Satan. Discouragement, depression, anddisorientation can be caused by allergies to certain foods or a wrong chemicalimbalance in the brain.God is able to heal mental problems and illnesses not caused by demonic powersas well as bring deliverance in cases caused by demons. But caution should betaken not to class all illness or mental problems as being caused by demonicspirits. Sometimes a simple change in diet or lifestyle will eliminate a problem if itis caused by natural causes such as improper diet or drinking bad water.3. Emotional Problems: Disturbances in the emotions which persist or recur,including resentment, hatred, anger, fear, rejection, self-pity, jealousy, depression,worry, insecurity, inferiority, etc.4. Spiritual Problems: Extreme difficulties in overcoming sin, including sinfulhabits. Rejection of spiritual solutions to problems. Any type of doctrinal error ordeception, including bondage to objects and literature of the cults.5. Circumstances: Demons can create difficult circumstances which are oppressive.Such circumstances usually involve confusion and can immediately be identifiedas demonic because God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33;James 3:16).Demonic possession can be recognized by the following signs:l. Indwelling Of An Unclean Spirit: Mark 5:2. This is demonstrated by a basicmoral uncleanness and filthiness. It might include the desire to go withoutclothing (see Luke 8:27).2. Unusual Physical Strength: A person shows strength beyond normal capabilities.For examples see Mark 5:3 and Luke 8:29.3. Fits Of Rage: Mark 9:14-29; Luke 8:26-39. These fits may be accompanied byfoaming at the mouth.29