​April—May 2020
 
PROPHETIC GUIDANCE
 
The following is a compilation of several prophetic voices spoken recently (in addition to our own).  We hope they will help you to discern these times to know what to do (I Chron. 12:32).  We pray they provide wisdom, combined with understanding, as you choose this day whom you will serve (Proverbs 4:7; Joshua 24:15).
 
Lance Walnau
He had a vision of an airplane full of passengers caught in a powerful storm.  Thunder, lightning, and turbulence toss it up and down.  The pilot battles intensely to keep it from crashing while the fuel is running out.  The storm is the corona virus epidemic.  The pilot is President Trump. The plane is the United States and the passengers are its citizens.  The fuel is the economy.  The pilot communicates the emergency need to land before the fuel runs out.  The tower/control says, “No!  You can’t land now”.  The tower is the medical and governmental advisors.  The pilot responds, “If we don’t land now we will crash”.  This is our present situation.
 
As a result of this present storm we will undergo a series of storms in the next year.  Each will be a fierce contending:  More of this virus (viruses); the economy; employment; the election. 
 
Rick Joyner
We are on a parallel with Joshua crossing over into the Promised Land:  Joshua 3:11-17.  The priests (Body of Christ and its leaders) must step out onto the flooding river in order for the raging river (epidemic, etc.) to part (give way).  We must lead the way for the benefit of “Adam” (vs. 16).  In particular, ministers (“priests”) must set the example/demonstrate faith to overcome raging flood waters (vs. 3:15)—i.e. death.
 
This crossing over is connected to this year’s Passover and overcoming plague.  As we do so, the process will next bring us to circumcision  (Joshua 5:1-12).  We must, each one, cut away what God identifies through the crossing over.  Following circumcision will come rest and healing (vs. 8-9) along with Passover (vs. 10).  Then will come conquest (Joshua 6).  Note that manna ceases after Passover.  We go from maintaining (being provided for) to conquering (after learning the principles of resting in the Lord). See verses 5:13-15.  We must learn the truth of Psalm 23:2.
 
Bob Jones prophesied decades ago that the decade of the 2020’s would be an entering into  rest and a harvest (that would continue until 2050).
 
A key to overcoming future plagues is intercession.  See Numbers 16:41-50.  Christian leaders must appeal for the atonement of the people’s sin, standing in their midst, offering up prayer (like the priests with the ark stood in the midst of the Jordan during the crossing over).
 
Paul Wilbur
We are becoming watchmen who have the confidence (trust) of the King.  To fully become one, we must follow the process of humility to faithfulness to obedience to watchmen in authority (confidence of the King).
 
Watchmen will partner with gatekeepers (those who control access) to guard treasure within.  That treasure is Kingdom rule and reign.  Watchmen will be trusted “cupbearers” for the King.
 
“The hour is coming and now is . . .” (John 4:23).  Acts 2:16, “This is that . . .” We are now entering the hour chosen for us.  It is the hour of the fullness of Acts 1-3.  Peter declared it in Acts 3:6.  The “Gate Beautiful” is the revealing of the message of the Kingdom in power. As watchmen bearing the King’s cup, in His confidence, we have walked through that gate into the hour of restoring His Kingdom on earth.  In Acts 1:6, the disciples asked, “Will you at this time restore . . .?”  In Acts 2:16, Peter declared “This is that”.  Now is the hour for “That’s” fullest demonstration as the church becomes His Kingdom watchmen—cupbearers.
 
Safe Harbor/Tim and Beth Scott
This present crisis/epidemic is a satanic backlash/counter-attack against God’s full Kingdom advancement in this season.  The dragon (Satan) wants to “devour the baby” (God’s Kingdom plan).  See:  Rev. 12:4, 15.  Goliath wants to terrify us and cause fear and panic with his roar. The roar of the Lion of Judah through us will cause his defeat.  The Lord of Hosts will empower our sling to bring him down; I Sam. 17:45-50.
 
The real issue of these days is, “Who is the true King?   Who will we serve?  Who will we fear?”  Corona in Latin means “crown”.  This epidemic is a sign of the contending in the earth over who wears the ultimate crown.  See:  I Tim. 6:15-16; Rev. 17:14.  That one is Jesus and in time every knee will bow and every tongue confess that He alone is King of all Kings and Lord over all.  His Kingdom is advancing today, more than ever, against violent resistance.  That resistance is increasing yearly but so is our determination to advance and establish His Kingdom rule.  See: Romans 14:11; Phil. 2:9-11.  These are remarkable times where we will see an increasing manifestation of the blessings of the New Covenant (Heb. 8:6; 12:24).  We will progressively see the realization of our part in the maturing and perfecting of the Body of Christ (Heb. 11:40; Eph. 2:14-16, 4:13-15).
 
In the midst of this crisis, God’s Word—His sword of truth—is exposing and revealing hidden things (Hebrews 4:12-13).  Surrounding president Trump, as he seeks to lead with wisdom, are:     

• Devouring wolves (Hamans; Esther 7:3-6) using him, and the law, against our citizens, especially Christians.
• Sly, cunning dogs (Pharisees; Matt. 23:23-24) trapping him to discredit him.
• Fawning Jackals (money-changers; Matt. 21:12) deceitfully profiting from him.
• Scavenging Hyenas (Jezebel; Rev. 1:20-23; 17:6) feeding on death and destruction. 

All these seek to impede and immobilize Trump’s administration and the country.  These are like the false teachers of II Peter 2:12-19 and Jude 10-13, 16-19.  At the same time, Trump has the companionship of lions whose roars encourage and strengthen him; and drive away the wolves, dogs, jackals, and hyenas.  Their sound drowns out the clamor arising from the myopic perspective of partisan operatives.  Pray that in policy decisions these lions be given preference over the demanding voice of mass panic and fear (incited by unscrupulous opportunists).
 
Regarding plagues and pestilence, the United States has loosed among itself the fruit of misplaced tolerance; in particular the tolerance of Jezebel.  Revelation 2:20-23 conveys the principle that tolerance of Jezebel results in sickness and death.  We, as a country, have tolerated generations of Jezebels at a national level.  The consequences have compounded exponentially.  For an in-depth examination of this, see Jonathan Cahn’s books, The Paradigm and The Oracle.
 
The facts are indisputable.  The results will be increasing waves of various sicknesses unless we repent and quit our tolerance of the likes of Clinton, Pelosi, Obama; and now Cortez, Oman, etc. (Jezebel and her children).  In reality, it is doubtful this will stop as a country.  So what can we do to protect ourselves?  The Lord has directed us to, first, Psalm 91 and second, A Four-fold Covering.  We need to pray and confess continually the provisions of Psalm 91 and stand in faith on its promises.  Additionally, Holy Spirit directed us to pray a four-fold covering over all connected to us.  This corresponds to the four-layered covering over the Tabernacle.  Pray as follows for:
(outermost to innermost)
                                                      Tabernacle Covering

• A Whirling Wall of Fire      Porpoise skins

Zech. 2:5; Ex. 14:20, 24     Ex. 25:5; 26:14

• Blood of Jesus                   Red ram skins

Rev. 12:11                         Ex. 25:5; 26:14

• Hedge of Thorns                Goat hair curtains

Job 1:10                             Ex. 26:7-13

• Angels                               Linen embroidered with cherubim

Ps. 91:11-12                      Ex. 26:1-6
The wall of fire repels, conceals, and guards.
The blood of Jesus appropriates His finished work.
The hedge shields us from the devourer and natural predators and circumstances.
Angels guard, guide, minister to, and assist.
 
Concurrently, with these tools, let us add a caution.  Avoid engaging in sensation or conspiracy speculations.  Rather, seek to develop spiritual maturity leading to heightened spiritual gifting; particularly discernment and the revelatory gifts.  This will help you to discern truth and adhere to the admonition of Ephesians 4:13-14, “Till we all come into the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a mature man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ:  That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive”. 
 
Regarding the achieving and appropriation of rest in this season, study Hebrews 4:1-13.  Verse 12-13 speaks of the circumcision that precedes rest.  Verses 1-2 emphasize the need to act with faith in order to obtain true “rest”.  This is the present internal state of the believer, who has, by faith, fully surrendered to the Lordship of Christ and rests within the complete control of the Holy Spirit.  This is true rest as opposed to simply being confined to quarters (house arrest) or sheltered in place.  Without His blood on the doorposts of one’s heart and home, no natural barrier can fully protect.  With the blood applied, in faith, no evil can overcome your household (Ps. 91:9-10).  One who is truly at rest in the Lord can “sleep” in Him through any storm that arises.  See:  Mark 4:37-40.
 
There are two upcoming occasions that provide an opportunity to appeal to heaven and activate our faith for breakthrough.  The first is Pesach Sheni (Second Passover, Friday, May 8).  This occurs annually as a time for those failing/unable to participate in Passover to have a second opportunity to do so.  It is primarily, like traditional Passover, a time to believe for and celebrate deliverance from plagues/bondage.
 
Next, on Tuesday, May 12, will be Lag B’Omer, the 33rd day of Omer counting.  It is a celebration in the midst of 49 days of counting the Omer, leading up to Shavuot/Pentecost.  It reflects on the miraculous lifting of a plague in 2 A.D.  It is a pause to thank God for His protection and presence in the midst of disasters/earthly woes.
 
Both occasions are times now to ask God to act to lift this epidemic and release healing—to allow us to return to normalcy and productivity.
 
Let Psalm 63:1-8 be a confession for you in these days until breakthrough comes (particularly verse 7).  To you all we say:
“Strengthen the weak hands, make firm the feeble knees.  Say to those who are fearful-hearted, ‘Be strong, do not fear!’   Behold your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God; He will come and save you.”

​What about . . . Acupuncture?
 
 
History & Theory
 
Modern acupuncture can be directly traced to the Chinese Emperor, Huang-ti (2697-2596 B.C.) whose teachings were passed down through oral tradition until they were compiled into “The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine” or simply, “Nei-ching”.  The Nei-ching is the classic text of acupuncture theory and practice and is based on Eastern religious theories concerning the nature of the universe.  It teaches that all nature and the universe (including man) is existing as vibrations of impersonal, polarized energy called Yin and Yang.  The key to spiritual, mental, and physical well-being, according to this Taoist dualism, is to balance the positive and negative aspects of this energy.  Chinese astrology is also involved in the theory. The belief is that every human organ correlates with a planet and a season of the year (The Holistic Health Handbook; Healing At Any Price?; Can You Trust Your Doctor?).
 
Chinese practitioners of acupuncture believe that an invisible energy flows along unseen paths called meridians.  For health to be maintained, the ‘ch’i’ or “life force” must flow without hindrance in order for health to be attained and maintained.  The job of the acupuncturist is to free the meridians through the light insertion of needles of pure copper, silver, or gold into the flesh at specific points (The Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine and Self-Help).  This is tied closely to the Chinese doctrine of the five elements and the two cycles of destruction and generation.  The belief is that the flow of energy within the body are an exact reflection of the cyclic energy in interaction between the five earthy elements of fire, water, metal, water, and wood (The Holistic Health Handbook).
 
Practice
 
The acupuncturist claims he can actually detect the movement of chi, a psychic, non-physical energy, flowing through invisible non-physical meridians.  Acupuncture authority, Mary Austin, describes the procedure as follows:
 
    When feeling pulses, the practitioner “listens” to them.  He must be relaxed, calm, and
    receptive.  It is important to cultivate the ability to listen to the vital message which
    will become clearly revealed to the calm and receptive mind.  The mystical revealing
    of the inmost secrets of cosmic energies—this is the essence of acupuncture diagnosis. 
 
This type pulse diagnosis is also touted to be helpful for divination, dream interpretation, and determining the time of death!!
 
An acupuncturist may be no more than a psychic/spiritistic healer who uses psychic abilities to diagnose or treat his patients under the concept of a universal life energy.  The practice is often combined with psychic diagnosis, astrologic medicine, kundalini
 
 
arousal (Yoga), applied kinesiology, shamanism, reflexology, channeling, or Spiritism (Can You Trust Your Doctor?). 
 
A scientist would understand acupuncture to be nothing more than some kind of interference with the electrochemical system of our bodies.  It is likely affecting the neurotransmitters of which dopamine is the most likely.  It commonly has a placebo affect—and at best, a temporary relief from pain.  But at what cost spiritually?!
 
 
Conclusion
 
What is often overlooked in our Western world is the role that Satan and his demons can play within the realm of medicine and diseases.  Taoism and Christianity are totally incompatible with one another.  According to Scripture, man is created in the image of God, not in the image of the universe.  While Taoism speaks of impersonal yin and yang, Scripture identifies a world of good and evil spirits.  Taoism claims that man can regain health and immortality through personal disciplines and the practice of magic, alchemy and TCM (traditional Chinese medicine).  Scripture condemns interaction with the occult, requires our obedience to God’s natural and spiritual law and affirms what we all know to be true—that the human life span is limited on earth.  From a Biblical perspective, the goal of life is an intimate relationship with a loving and just God and with one’s fellow man (Matt. 22:37-40), not harmony with the universe.  Taoism proclaims itself as the way, yet Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me” (John 14:6).
 
Acupressure utilizes the same theories as acupuncture with the only difference being applied pressure to the meridians rather than the insertion of needles.   Therefore, it is equally as dangerous (The Biblical Guide to Alternative Medicine).
 
 
“The prudent sees the evil and hides himself; but the naïve go on, and are punished for it (Prov. 22:3)”.   
 
 
 
Compiled by Safe Harbor Ministries ([email protected]).  Pass it on!
 

​Deceased people and Familiar Spirits
 
                                                                             Safe Harbor Ministries
 

• In scripture: Luke 13:28 and 16:19-31, it is evident that those in hell could see others in paradise (Abraham’s bosom).  That was part of their torment.  But the reverse was not true—those in heaven weren’t allowed to look down on earth or hell because there are no tears or sorrow in heaven.  If departed Christians could see the human condition on earth, it would be heartbreaking; for them to see the torment in hell would be unbearable. In hell, there is separation from all good.  In heaven, there is total separation from all evil. “A deceased person’s involvement with the living is sometimes viewed by us as what is necessary to convict a hardened sinner.  If we are not convinced by Jesus’ resurrection, a visit beyond the grave by a loved one would be denied also” (Matthew Henry commentary).
• It is not a function of deceased Christians (in heaven) to pray.  Christians are commanded to pray many times in the Word of God.  If perfected saints in heaven were able to pray, there would be no need for our imperfect prayers here on earth.  Their prayers would suffice.  Angels assist in taking our prayers to God and bringing the answers from Him back down to us (Rev. 8: 3-5).
• Hebrews 12:1 speaks of a cloud of witnesses.  According to scripture, this group is made up of the “heroes of the faith” (Gideon, Samson, David, Samuel, etc., as described in Heb. 11: 30-40).  Our deceased loved ones are not in the cloud of witnesses; therefore, generally speaking, they are not looking on as we live our lives.  The cloud of witnesses is to serve as inspiration to us by their earthly example.
•  There are no Biblical accounts of deceased saints being concerned about their loved ones back on earth.  The chasm between heaven and earth cannot be breached by departed Christians or departed heathen—only by angels and demons. The deceased are not allowed to speak to humans, visit humans, or visit earth for any reason.   They do not need anything from us nor do they have anything to offer us—no comfort, encouragement, or ability to strengthen.  That is the function of the Holy Spirit and why He was sent to the Body of Christ.   Therefore, any “presence” of the deceased that a person may feel at a funeral or at any other time, is a familiar spirit/ghost (a demon familiar with that person’s life).  Familiar spirits can imitate a person’s voice, appearance, and activities.  They are “familiar” with the entire history of the deceased person, therefore they are privy to knowledge that only that person may have had (like the combination of a safe, a family secret, etc.).  A favorite deception of the enemy is to have familiar spirits speak through those who “channel” spirits in order to convince the family/loved ones that the actual person is speaking to them from the great beyond.  In actuality, the “medium” is allowing a demonic familiar spirit to use their mind, body, and speech to cruelly deceive the loved ones seeking to contact the deceased.  When an ungodly soul tie of longing exists with a deceased loved one, ask the Lord to sever it with the sword of the Spirit.   Great relief and release will result.
• What about Saul contacting Samuel from the dead in I Samuel 28?  A familiar spirit impersonated  Samuel when Saul asked the witch of Endor to conjure him.  Only the witch saw Samuel.  Saul did not see Samuel.  Why would God allow a witch to access a prophet who was deceased?  Look at the fruit of the meeting.  “The conversation with the familiar spirit pointed Saul toward despair and suicide, not hope and repentance like a true prophet would.  Samuel had already prophesied over Saul when he was alive.  Saul didn’t seek Samuel prior to his death; why consult him after death?  The apparition told Saul that he was Samuel.  Satan knows how to speak with an air of religion (religious spirit) to deceive.  He speaks “good words” with a malicious design” (Matthew Henry).
• A key to identifying the presence of familiar spirits is that they whisper and murmur (Is. 8:19; 28:4).
• In the account of the transfiguration in Matthew 17:1-13, Moses and Elijah did indeed appear with Jesus.  At the time, Moses was in Abraham’s bosom (not heaven) and Elijah never saw death (caught up in a fiery chariot).  The purpose of their appearance was a unique moment in time which God orchestrated in order to confirm the ministry of Christ.  Moses represented the law and Elijah represented the prophetic.  For them all three to appear together dispelled any misconception that Jesus was Elijah or Moses.  But the higher purpose was for God to reveal that the “law” and the “prophetic” both came together to signify that this was truly His Son, come to earth to fulfill both.

What About . . . Halloween?
The Prophet’s Dictionary,  (a Christian book) defines Halloween thusly, “October 31, a satanic holiday for the intermingling of occultic agents and demonic spirits.  Those who celebrate it seek to exalt profanity, uncleanness, and witchcraft.  It is a high offering day for witches, sorcerers, and occultists of all kinds.”
 
In “Sabbats/Festivals of Paganism, Witchcraft, and Satanism”, October 31 is described as “The Great Sabbat and Fire Festival.  The night the dead return to earth.”  [Note: “Sabbats” are the eight holidays/festivals of witchcraft.]
 
More and more Christians are beginning to understand that Halloween isn’t the benign little  children’s holiday we always thought it to be.  In fact, we’ve come to realize that it is a day the enemy has long used for his purposes—to revel in the evils of witchcraft.   
 
But new believers, friends, family, and neighbors may not yet have this information and conviction.  In order to explain to others why we shouldn’t celebrate Halloween we need to have a thorough history and adequate information to share.  We need not shame or judge others.  Instead, present this information in love and concern then let the truth set them free.
 
History
The predecessor of Halloween was the Roman Catholic Church’s All Saints’ Day.  It was originally celebrated in May.  In A.D. 608 the Roman emperor Constantine appeased the populace of newly conquered heathen territories by allowing them to combine their ancient ritual of Day of the Dead, with the newly dated All Saints’ Day.  While Catholics celebrated the death of departed saints, pagans devoted the preceding night to their Lord of the Dead, Samhain.  Samhain Day, or Halloween, is now the preeminent holiday celebrated in witchcraft.
 
The ancient druids performed rituals in which a cauldron symbolized the abundance of the goddess Pomona .  As the Goddess of the Harvest, she was represented by the “horn of plenty” at her feet (signifying bounty).  Apples were her sacred fruit, therefore many games of divination involving apples entered through her influence, including bobbing for apples.
 
 Halloween became known as a time of “betwixt and between”; a sacred season of superstition and spirit conjurations.  It was the night the spirits of the dead returned and moved about freely among the living.  They had to be appeased or “treated” or the living would be “tricked”.  Huge bonfires were set on hilltops to frighten away evil spirits and placate supernatural powers that controlled the processes of nature.  More recently, European immigrants, particularly the Irish, introduced their Halloween practices to America.   By the late nineteenth century, their customs had become popular.  It was an occasion to indulge in devilry that wouldn’t be tolerated at other times of the year.
 
Not only were the departed spirits to be feared, but also the Druid priests because it was a time of mass human and animal sacrifice.  All Hallows Eve, as it came to be known, was a night when the dead stalked the living.  As the “ghosts” visited people’s homes, food was given to appease them.  That is how the practice of giving candy at the door began.  Masks were originally worn to ward off evil spirits by changing one’s appearance to look like the ghosts and goblins themselves.  Today, children dress as ghosts, demons, skeletons, witches, zombies, etc., and demand a treat (so that the homeowner doesn’t suffer a nasty trick or curse).
 
The Irish introduced the indelible symbol of Halloween—the jack-o-lantern.  They commemorated “Jack”, a shifty Irish villain so wicked that neither heaven nor the Devil wanted him.  Rejected by both, he wandered the world endlessly, putting a glowing coal into a carved-out turnip (later a pumpkin) to light his way through the night.  It now represents a damned soul.  Even the colors of Halloween have significance—in the masses for the dead, the beeswax candles used were orange, and the ceremonial caskets were covered with black cloths (a symbol of death).  Cats represent evil spirits, or the “familiars” (spirit companions) of witches.  Black cats were, and still are, especially sought out since their color represents death. In addition to black cats, bats, owls, frogs, crows, and wolves are sought out and valued by witches.  Each are easily demonized (with the exception of frogs which are used in potions, brews, and spells) and thereby of great value in witchcraft.
 
Today
Today, Halloween is the second highest grossing holiday for our economy (with Christmas being first).  Sixty percent of all Halloween costumes are sold to adults. For psychic readers, clairvoyants, etc., it’s the busiest time of the year.  Publishers of books on subjects like astrology and witchcraft indicate a dramatic increase of sales during the month of October.   Over $950 million dollars is spent on candy, $1 billion on costumes, $500 million on holiday decorations, and $50 million on Halloween greeting cards.  The on-going success of movies and TV shows that glorify the occult, paranormal activities and graphic violence is staggering.  Many coordinate their release with the Halloween season to draw a larger audience.  People want to be “scared to death” and are usually not knowledgeable, or don’t care, about the ill effects that fear has on their well-being.  The Bible says, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind” (II Tim. 1:7).  I John 4:18 says that fear has torment but the perfect love of God casts out fear.  If fear is not of God, then why do Christians still watch horror movies that were especially designed to generate and promote fear?  Movies and television shows about zombies, vampires, ghosts, psychics, mediums, clairvoyants, and the paranormal are not harmless entertainment; they are dangerous and cause us to be spiritually vulnerable. In addition, haunted houses have greatly increased in popularity and have evolved into sophisticated means of causing fright in not only children but adults.  Genuine haunted houses are places where demons live (usually due to a murder or suicide having taken place there). 
 
Christian Response
 
The Bible is clear that occult practices are an abomination to the Lord (Deut. 18:10-12; Ex. 22:18).  The New Testament gives several examples of a proper Christian response to the occult (Acts 19:19; II Cor. 6:14).  Scripture clearly states that when a person dies, their spirit immediately goes to either heaven or hell.  They are never allowed to stay or return to earth—but their demons can!  Therefore, what many think of as “ghosts” are actually demonic familiar spirits.   All similarities, knowledge, appearance, etc., to a deceased person are demonic.  Any attempt to communicate with these spirits/demons is strictly forbidden (e.g. channeling, séances, etc.).  See Luke 16: 19-31 and Luke 23:43.
 
Law officers would disagree that Halloween is a harmless holiday for children, especially after finding animal and sometimes even human remains in wooded areas where satanic rituals are conducted every Halloween.  Young ladies who have been involved in human trafficking also relate horrific stories of satanic rituals they are/were forced to participate in every Halloween.  Those delivered by the Lord out of the occult and witchcraft will assure you that Halloween is no laughing matter and anything but harmless.  Witches/Wiccans are deadly serious about Halloween.   Do we really want to participate along with them by “celebrating” Halloween in any form or fashion?   Parents now worry that a demented criminal will distribute poisoned candy or goodies containing pins or razor blades.  There’s also the danger that motorists won’t see costumed kids walking on dark streets.  You would be hard-pressed to think of one positive virtue in a satanic holiday symbolized by demons, ghosts, death, darkness, fear, and terror.
 
Alternatives
 
In an effort to provide a godly alternative to Halloween, some churches have fall festivals or “Truth and Treats” parties where children dress up as Bible characters and enjoy harmless games with candy prizes as substitutes for trick or treat candy.  Decorating with Indian corn, hay bales, uncarved pumpkins and gourds, etc., are also an alternative to the traditional Halloween décor. 
 
Some Christians hand out candy to the children who trick or treat but include a tract about Halloween or a little gift item with a scripture on it.  Others argue that doing so still encourages the practice of trick or treating and should be avoided altogether.  Perhaps the most effective alternative is to have prayer meetings on October 31 to stand against the rise of crime, illegal activities, and occult practices that correspond to this night.
 
We don’t have to fear Halloween but neither should we minimize the significance and meaning of the day.  For Christians, every day is the day that the Lord has made.  Let us rejoice and be glad in it! 
 
 
Resources
Watchman’s Fellowship, Branch & Walker
Halloween and Satanism, Phil Phillips and Joan Hake Robie.
Like Lambs to the Slaughter, Johanna Michaelsen.
Larson’s Book of Spiritual Warfare, Bob Larson.
Stand and Deliver,  Tim and Beth Scott
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Compiled by Safe Harbor Ministries ~ pass it on.
​

​What about . . . . REFLEXOLOGY?
Safe Harbor Ministries
 
Reflexology is the science or study of reflexes; a form of zone therapy which concentrates on the soles of the feet.  Zone therapy is manipulation of certain zones of surface anatomy that is said to have curative effects on distant organs.  It is also known as acupressure of the foot. The fact of the matter, however, is that these systems assume connections between parts of the body which bear no relation to known neurological pathways.  This invisible flow is assumed in many other holistic therapies as well.  “The elaborate neurologic pathways necessary for such a powerful capability have yet to be demonstrated, or even deemed plausible, in spite of years of neuronatomical studies.  The notion that one small part of the body can reveal or control all of the rest certainly is appealing—but the appeal is to a universal human appetite for short cuts to knowledge and power” [New Age Medicine, Reisser & Weldon].  From a purely medical standpoint, during its one-hundred year presence in America, almost nothing on the subject has been published in medical journals.  Objective, controlled studies are also sorely lacking.  Therefore the inquirer who is looking for reliable proof will come away quite empty-handed.
History
The practice of Reflexology existed in histories of both the Chinese and Egyptian cultures. The long history of this theory began with pagan shamanistic (witchcraft) healing methods but has no verification basis in modern medicine.  It was introduced to the United States in 1913 by an ear, nose, and throat doctor (Dr. William Fitzgerald).  He claimed that applying pressure had an anesthetic effect on other areas of the body.  He posited that the blockage of an energy field (i.e. the invisible life force or Chi) can prevent healing.  It was modified in the 1930’s by a nurse, Eunice Ingham, who mapped the entire body into “reflexes” on the feet (Wikipedia). Dr. James Carter, a noted practitioner, says, “Some conclusions are paranormal”.  He declares that “perfecting the technique involves the use of intuition . . . a kind of hyperconscious or ultra-conscious state.” 
 
How it Works
Reflexology operates on the basis of a schematic approach which considers certain portions of the human anatomy as miniatures of the whole body.  For example, the big toe connects to a person’s head; the ball of the foot connects to the lungs, and so forth. With this premise, massaging or otherwise stimulating that part of the foot can supposedly treat dysfunction of the corresponding body part.  “Tension nodules” or heat detected by a Reflexologist on the sole of the foot is purported to be an indicator of a physical malady or even a disease [Larson’s Book of Spiritual Warfare, Bob Larson].  It is often used in combination with yin-yang, Yoga, and Tai Chi.
It is marketed primarily as a way to alleviate stress and heal various body maladies.  In addition, some practitioners claim it will increase circulation, assist in weight loss, cure bedwetting, reverse the aging process and even alleviate hair loss! (Wikipedia)
 
 
Conclusion
From a medical standpoint, since Reflexology is not recognized by the law, no formal training is required to practice it or call oneself a Reflexologist. (Dr. Stephen Barret, Quackwatch website).
Since the roots of Reflexology are in Chinese Taoism, a pagan religion with numerous precepts contrary to Christianity, this form of New Age medicine can lead to spiritual deception and bondage [The Biblical Guide to Alternative Medicine, Anderson & Jacobson].   
 
 

​What about . . . . YOGA?
 
“From ancient Hinduism comes the idea that universal energy flows from the air we breathe (hence the word prana, from the Sanskrit word for “breath”).  The various schools of yoga place much emphasis on breathing techniques and exercises, known as prana yama which are said to concentrate prana from the air and distribute it throughout the body.  While we might tend to think of yoga as a series of exercises for improving flexibility and muscle tone, yogic practices are intended to produce altered states of consciousness.  The word yoga means “yoke” or “union”.  Yogic exercises are ultimately intended to produce an experience of union with Brahman, the god of Hinduism.  The widespread availability of yoga classes has unfortunately given these practices an air of innocence and spiritual neutrality which they scarcely deserve.  One should not take yoga’s mystical underpinnings and occult ties lightly.
 
To understand Yoga, you must understand “chakras” and “kundalini”.  Both are loaded with mystical and sexual overtones.  The kindalini is a goddess as well as a snake, and she lies in three and one-half coils in her cave (kanda) at the base of the spine.  The purpose of yoga is to rouse the sleeping kundalini so that she stretches, hisses, and writhes her way up through the sushumma channel to the top of the head where the Lord Shiva, third god of the Hindu trinity, abides.  Shiva represents pure consciousness, and kundalini is a power of the goddess Shakti.  The aim of yoga is accomplished with the union or marriage of Shiva and Shakti.”  [New Age Medicine, A Christian Perspective on Holistic Health, Reisser, M.D. & Weldon.]
 
“The various positions and breathing exercises in Yoga are to prepare the body so that the demon god called Kundalini can actually enter into the body and flow through it!  Yoga is specifically for the purpose of opening up the practitioner to the entrance of demons.  For instance, a common yoga position called “The Cobra” is thus described in the book of Yoga, ‘By the position of this posture the serpent goddess awakes’.  The twelve positions used for warm-up exercises in Yoga are each a position of posture of worship of the sun god.  They are traditionally performed at dawn, facing the sun.” [Prepare for War, R. Brown]
 
“Yoga teaches breath control and postures, which are designed to allow adepts to concentrate without having their minds distracted by extraneous things.  By concentrating on progressively more abstract concepts, yogis achieve higher and higher meditative states, culminating in a contentless trance that constitutes liberation.  The ultimate goal is levitation, projection of the mind into other bodies, and spiritual sight.” [The Biblical Guide to Alternative Medicine,  Dr. Neil Anderson & Dr. Michael Jacobson.]
 
“The postures of Yoga are designed to condition the mind to experience an altered state of consciousness.  Each pose is presumed to be tuning the body, glands, and psychic nervous system to a level of spiritual susceptibility and altered awareness.  Hindu Yoga teachers have long defined this discipline as religious both in goal and in practice.  Can it then be casually disassociated from its pagan origins simply because a Western teacher redefines its intent?” [Larson’s Book of World Religions and Alternative Spirituality]
 
“Through the different breathing exercises in the practice of Yoga and by willfully emptying the mind through concentrated meditation, a shift of consciousness occurs in the mind, very similar to the drug-induced state of the shaman or sorcerer.  A doorway to the spirit realm is then opened through the mind and a demonic spiritual connection is made within the spirit of the person.  The person is now ‘free’ to have all kinds of spiritual experiences, especially the sensation that they are now one with God.  This is what is meant by the  New Age term ‘self-realization’.  In reality, it is sorcery because any entrance into the spirit realm through any means other than Jesus Christ is the same as witchcraft (Gal. 5:20).  Isaiah 2:6 says, ‘Surely Lord, you have rejected and forsaken your people, the house of Jacob, because they are filled with customs from the east and with soothsayers who foretell like the Philistines.’
 
There is no such thing as ‘Christian yoga.  Some Christians believe they can participate in yoga for exercise while meditating on the Holy Spirit.  But in every way it is linked with an ancient religious system of worship to the Sun god, Baal.  Many occultists have written about this method of entrance and travel through the astral realm. 
 
Jesus said in John 10:7, ‘I am the door of the sheep’.  Because man is a spiritual creature, he searches for spiritual experiences, sometimes through doorways other than Jesus.  God loves us and truly desires to give us spiritual gifts and experiences so that we may know Him better (Eph. 1:15-23).  It is through faith and a relationship with Him that the Lord gives us all we need to bless us and to make us a blessing to others. 
 
If you have had any past involvement with yoga, ask the Lord’s forgiveness.  Then renounce sorcery and the spirits of yoga and command them to go in the name of Jesus.  Destroy all mats, clothing, videos, and music associated with yoga to break the enemy’s power and let him know you mean business.  Spirits associated with yoga are:  Antichrist, divination, Python, Leviathan, Kundalini, Shiva, delusion, deception, and seducing spirits.  Next, confess that Jesus is Lord, the only Christ, and true Son of God.  Finally, ask God to close every doorway into the spirit realm that you have opened through the practice of yoga.  By doing this you are taking the Sword of the Spirit and severing the serpent and his works.” [ DAnne Loper & Kathie Walters—Internet]
 
You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.  Pass it on.
 
 
Compiled by:
 
Safe Harbor Ministries 
[email protected]
770-535-SAFE

​What about . . . MARTIAL ARTS?
 
 “Popularized through movies and exercise classes, this Eastern tradition has strong roots in the occult, despite its apparently benign adaptability to Western culture.” ( Bob Larson)
 
“Martial Arts are various fighting sports such as Karate, Kung fu, T’ai Chi Ch’uan, Judo, Jujitsu, Aikido, Tae Kwon Do, Muay Thai Kickboxing, and Ninjutsu, the beginnings of which date back to almost 3000 B.C.  The varieties of fighting styles are united by a spiritual center rooted in Taoism and Buddhism.  Buddhist monk Bodhidharma is believed to be the originator of martial arts.  The religious significance of the arts lies in the harmonizing of life forces (Yin and Yang) and the ability to harness CH’I.  Many who practice the martial arts do so without an awareness of the religious nature of the sport.” (Dictionary of Cults, Sects, Religions and The Occult; and Healing Through Deliverance, Peter Horrobin.)
 
 
Symbols:  A spiral configuration from the I-Ching representing the belief in reincarnation and cyclical evolution; double fish shown as a curved line in the shape of an S bisecting a circle.  One side is dark with a small white dot in it and the other side is light with a small dark dot in it.  This represents the harmonizing opposites of yin and yang (“a little evil in all good and a little good in all evil”).
 
Bowing to the sensei (honorable teacher) and the piercing yell (kiyai)  are only two examples of the ancient spiritual disciplines designed to harmonize the body with the energy forces of the universe in order to achieve religious enlightenment.
 
The centuries-old practices of martial arts caught on in America when servicemen returning from World War II brought back the “arts” from the Pacific.  Well known martial arts film stars such as David Carradine and Bruce Lee were known for exploring the spiritual depths of martial arts.  Lee died an untimely, mysterious death and Carradine hung himself accidentally during a perverse sex act.
 
Buddhist founder, Bodhidharma’s system combined kung fu with the philosophical principles of Zen to develop a highly sophisticated form of weaponless fighting.  Kung fu emphasizes force to break force.  It also includes the striking of vital points, delayed action “death touches”, and the use of psychic powers.
 
One of the West’s foremost Tai Chi teachers, T.T. Liang, states, “The ultimate goal of learning and practicing Tai Chi is to become an immortal.”
 
The term “karate” means “empty hand”.  The emphasis on bowing (a sign of worship), breathing exercises, seated meditation, intense concentration, and heightened awareness, in imbedded with
Zen philosophy.  Its stated purpose is to unite mind, body, and spirit to achieve the unity envisioned by Zen (a distinctly pagan practice strictly forbidden by scripture).
 
The term “aikido” means “the road to a union with the universal spirit”.  The body movements in this practice focus on the power of ki, which is inhaled into the lower abdomen and exhaled through the hands.  A tenth-degree black belt aikido instructor from Japan states of his art, “We created a universal harmony that ties together all of the worlds, the phenomenal world we see around us, the world of the kind of spirits we cannot see, and the pure world of energy.”
 
 While it may be true that the various disciplines of martial arts have different forms, they all have similar religious backgrounds, foundations, and goals.  Because of their roots in Taoism and Buddhism, they view the entire universe as interplay of harmonizing yin and yang.  These principles are expressed by the relaxed state of movements.
 
Followers of Zen believe that enlightenment may be shared by sending forth ki (C’hi) to illuminate the spiritual darkness of the world.  Whether the form of martial arts one practices is based on the doctrine of naturalism found in Taoism or the doctrine of illusion found in Buddhism, the philosophical basis of both explicitly deny the blood atonement of Jesus Christ.  To Christians, salvation comes by the finished work of the cross, where Christ was sacrificed for our sin.  It is by His resurrection that we have eternal life.  Salvation in Zen is achieved by comprehending the divine essence of man, who is manifestation of the Universal Soul.  Involvement in the martial arts implies an inherent approval of the religious principles behind them. 
 
The religious and philosophical roots of martial arts presupposes a pantheistic perception of the cosmos.  Even the cautious student runs the risk of being conditioned by the techniques that pursue a goal of impersonal oneness with the universe.  The Taoistic and Buddhist principles are an integral part of fulfilling the ultimate spiritual aims of martial arts.  Practices rooted in false religions cannot be “Christianized” by praying prior to or afterward, nor by playing praise and worship music while executing them. 
 
“O house of Jacob, come and let us walk in the light of the Lord.  For you have forsaken your people, the house of Jacob, because they are filled with eastern ways.” Is. 2:5-6
 
“Every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God; and this is that spirit of antichrist.” (I John 4:3) 
 
“Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)
 
Sources:  Castro, Cropeza, & Rhodes, Christian Research Journal; East-West Journal; Logan & Petras, Handbook of the Martial Arts and Self-Defense; The History and Philosophy of Kung Fu; Aikido in Daily Life; Larson’s Book of World Religions and Alternative  Spirituality.
 
 
    “Let Your lovingkindness and Your truth continually preserve me.” Psalm 40:11
 
Feel free to pass this on to anyone who might benefit from it.
 
 
 
 
Compiled by:  Safe Harbor Ministries
Tim and Beth Scott
[email protected]

WHAT ABOUT . . . KINESIOLOGY?
Origin
Kinesiology has its roots in the mystical teachings of Chinese medicine.  Acupuncture and acupressure therapies also fit into this category as they “manipulate invisible energies” called “Ch’i” or “Live Force”.   These practices utilize everything from needles, touch and hand passes to arm-pulling.  Their “science” is based on conjecture, subjective impression, unreliable date and, most importantly, the precepts of Taoism.  They stand separate from the scientific community.  The “technology” of life energy is totally defined by the belief system of its promoters:  mystics, psychics, and New Age leaders of “New Consciousness”. 
History
In the early 1960’s, chiropractic practitioner George Goodheart came to the conclusion that muscle spasms were caused by muscle weakness.  The task, according to Goodheart, would therefore be to locate the weak muscles and strengthen them.  He then combined standard muscle-testing techniques from physical therapy with Chinese concepts of energy flow, eventually producing the “Applied Kinesiology Research Manuals”.  His ideas were popularized by Pasadena chiropractor John Thie as “Touch for Health”—a new approach to restoring our natural energies”.  Note that the applied kinesiology described here differs greatly from formal kinesiology (the study of bodily movements and the muscles that control them).  Formal kinesiology is used in physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Touch for Health has become the most popular form of applied kinesiology.  Thie states his belief that “the innate intelligence that runs the body is connected to universal intelligence that runs the world, so each person is plugged into the universal intelligence through the system.”   His philosophy and core beliefs regarding life, the human body, and healing, are decidedly New Age.
How Kinesiology Is Practiced
These are the two main practices of kinesiology:

• Chinese pulse testing ~ recognizing deviations in the flow of Ch’i by feeling pulses in various “meridians” of the body.  The goal is to bring balance (yin and yang) when order is blocked or drained.  The therapist’s hand moves from one end of the meridian to the other in a continuous motion in an effort to restore strength.  Other terms for this are correcting “auras” and the “magnetic pass”.  The philosophy is: The universe is energy.  We are energy. We are one.
• Muscle Strength/Arm strength test ~ used to check for food, vitamin, or medication intolerances.  The person being tested extends his or her arm at a ninety-degree angle to the body.  A “practitioner” pushes the arm downward at the wrist, with the subject offering resistance.  After this initial test of strength, a certain food, vitamin, or medication is placed in the subject’s opposite hand or mouth.  If the arm offers less resistance, the individual is declared to be allergic to the food, vitamin, or medication.  The Muscle Strength Test is related to acupuncture points and the “lines of energy” used for centuries in Chinese medicine to direct the body’s own healing powers.  Science has not discovered a magical communication between an undigested vitamin tablet and the body’s muscles.  No one in the field of nutrition has discovered any vitamin touch points.   Practitioners will also point to various other objects and practices that weaken energy.  For instance, energy zappers include wearing sunglasses, using deodorants and perfumes, working under fluorescent lights, wearing synthetic material anywhere on your body, wearing a watch on the wrong wrist, listening to rock music, and the sign of the cross.  Objects and practices that increase energy include a Greek Orthodox cross, a swastika, classical music, organic foods, etc.   So the cross of Jesus is bad for you and the Nazi swastika is good for you?!  Enough said.

 
Christian Response
Patients of kinesiology are being treated on the basis of religious beliefs rather than physiological principles.   The religious beliefs of Taoism (the foundation for kinesiology) are diametrically opposed to Christianity.  The issues associated with kinesiology are not purely scientific, but have major spiritual implications as well.  Any therapies that claim to be manipulating the visible energies  of Ch’i, “life energy”, or the like, by using needles, touch, hand passes, arm-pulling, etc., fit into this dangerous category.  Their “science” is based on conjecture, subjective impressions, unreliable date and most importantly, Taoism.  They stand separate from the scientific community.
For a Christian to accept the passive stance of “patient” before a practitioner who exercises this type New Age spiritual power could easily result in spiritual bondage.
In the Biblical account of King Asa’s terminal illness we find him making the fatal mistake of seeking “physicians” (sorcerers or medicine men who operated with curses and magic) rather than the Lord.  As a result, he died before his time (II Chron. 16: 12-13).  As Ecclesiastes says, “There is nothing new under the sun”.  The same spirits of deception, divination, and sorcery are still active in many areas of our society, especially alternative medicine.
 
Sources:
 New Age Medicine, A Christian Perspective on Holistic Health,  Paul Reisser, M.D., Teri Reisser, John Weldon.
Brooks Alexander, Co-director: The Spiritual Counterfeits Project.
 
Compiled by Safe Harbor Ministries ([email protected]) ~ Pass it on!
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What about . . . Aromatherapy?
 
Introduction
“Herbs and oils are gifts from God.  He gave those to us at creation, like it says in Genesis 1:29, ‘I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth.’ Ezekiel 47:12 and Revelation 22:2 also describe leaves of trees as useful for healing.  The New Agers and eastern mystics embrace the gifts but reject the Gift Giver.  The whole integrative health industry has been hijacked by New Age and Eastern mystics, so it’s hard to sort through a lot of information on aromatherapy without running into New Age applications.” [Samaritan Ministries International]
 
At the onset, it is important to distinguish between the valid use of aromatic oils in cosmetics, perfumes, and medicines, and holistic aromatherapy as a healing technique.  Some products (such as perfumed candles, hand lotion, bath oil, etc.) may be labeled “aromatherapy” but are not significant elements of holistic aromatherapy.  The use of aromatic oils in relaxing massage can also be legitimate but needs to be distinguished from their employment by New Age practitioners who attribute their “healing” properties to ‘balancing energy flows’.  The oils distilled from plants are not the problem, the problem is with the way they are used and promoted for use.  Herbal medicine has been around since the beginning of time, and not only did God create the plants for food, but also for medicine. [“Spiritual Dangers of Essential Oils”]
 
We need to know the spiritual dangers of essential oils so that we don’t get caught up in something that could involve us in New Age and even witchcraft practices.  Not only do those practices oppose the Word of God, they can open you up to dangerous spiritual forces.  The fact that books on aromatherapy are found in the occult and New Age section of popular bookstores such as Barnes and Noble and Books a Million should tell you something.  More often than not, you will find a section on aromatherapy in books on witchcraft. 
 
Origin/History
“Aromatic oils were widely used in ancient Chinese, Egyptian, Greek, Indian and Roman civilizations for cosmetics, fumigation, embalming, medicines, and religious rituals.  Perfumes and medicines were prepared in temples and there was a Greek temple of aromatherapy.  Aromatic substances were burned to appease gods and channel divine knowledge.  The Greeks ascribed divine origins to aromatic plants.  Breathing in wood and resin aromas was believed to drive out demons.  In the Middle Ages, incense and aromas were used during rituals.”
 
Present day aromatherapy can be traced back to the work of Professor and French chemist, R. M .Gattefosse, who first used the term aromatherapie as the title of his 1928 book. Austrian-born chemist Marguerite Maury and British-born Robert Tisserand also popularized the practice of aromatherapy.  Tisserand’s  essential treatise on the subject explains how the occult properties of plants work upon the mind and emotions:
 
“Plant and herb essences are like the personality, or spirit, of the plant.  The essence is the most ethereal and subtle part of the plant. . . what we are talking about here are vibrations….  The more we develop our intuition the more we will be able to see the order and perfection of the universe.  Aromatherapy is based on certain principles which are shared by acupuncture, herbal medicines, and homeopathy.  The main principles of our therapy are:  life force, yin/yang, and organic foods.  The Chinese call the life force Ch’i; the Indians call it Prana; but we aroma therapists call it energy.  It is the only power which can produce health within us.” (101: 10-11/ 101:45-47). 
 
“Flower remedies are intended to alter one’s state of consciousness and develop psychic abilities.” (Bach Flower Remedies).
 
“The dew accumulated on the petals of wild flowers before sunrise was changed dramatically. . .after our careful examination of the occult forces at play we saw how these
could be applied to correct imbalances in the astral and mental auras of man” (54:114 Esoteric Healing, Douglas Baker).
 
 
King Tut’s tomb held 50 alabaster jars containing essential oils.  It was used as much for spiritual purposes as for medicinal ones.  The Egyptians believed the fragrance of the oils would rise to heaven, honor their gods, and carry their wishes and prayers up for consideration.  It is used in similar fashion today during many spiritual rites, primarily witchcraft. 
 
Some famous practitioners of aromatherapy over the centuries are:
 
·         Asclepius (800 b.c.)—god of healing in Greek mythology who was supposedly deified after death.
·         King of Ur—to please the gods and goddesses
·         The Ishmaelites in Bible days
·         The Indian practice of Ayurveda (Life Knowledge)
·         In Tibetian temples for purification.
·         Used for an expression of the animist and cosmic conceptions responding above all to the exigencies of a cult.
·         Associated at first with Theophanous and incantations, the oils grew out of the ritual.
·         Considered by the Indo-Aryan to be either smoke, wind, or odour.
·         Modern day:  Holistic health practitioners, Naturopaths, acupuncturists, chiropractors, massage therapists, and Chinese medical practitioners
 
Modern Day Use
 
Prominent aromatherapists believe that essential oils contain vital force, life energy, or universal cosmic energy, which have New Age and Eastern religious and cultural associations.  In Practical Aromatherapy, Penny Rich concludes, ‘Essential oils are so complex and magical that no one knows what they are.  They have a life force similar to the human spirit.’”  They are used one of 3 ways:  1.  Sense of smell  2.  Through permeable membrane of the skin   3.  Ingested.
 
The use reflects a philosophical and spiritual outlook, “Come, you wise plant and heal this patient for me.  I want to understand your 700 secrets” (The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils,  Julia Lawless). 
 
“The use of volatile plant extracts, especially, essential oils, are used in treatments designed to promote physical and psychological well-being.  Essential oils found in holistic aromatherapy treatments offer many physical, mental, and emotional benefits.  They are known to:  Boost energy levels, change cognitive states, eliminate headaches, enhance memory, heighten immunity, improve mood, promote healing, provide stress relief, and relieve discomfort” (Aromatherapy for Natural Living,  Anne Kennedy).
 
 “The herbs and plants themselves possess no mystical power.  As in dowsing rods, crystals, Tarot cards, I Ching sticks, rune dice, or the Ouija board, they merely become a focal point behind which the spirits secure their goals.  Books such as:  The Occult Properties of Herbs, Vegetarianism and Occultism, and Herbalism Through the Ages (published by the Rosecrucian  Society), show that the occult and spirit world have utilized herbs and plants for their own purposes for ages.
 
Ignorantly using New Age herbal remedies is potentially dangerous and may inadvertently ruin the physical health of people or introduce them to the world of the occult” (Can You Trust Your  Doctor?, Weldon & Ankerberg).
 
Christian Checklist
“Careful distinction needs to be made between the legitimate use of aromatic oils and holistic aromatherapy.  First of all, be very careful where you purchase essential oils.  Check for buzz words like:  grounding, cleansing, balancing, harmony, centering, purifying, Chakras, aligning, regenerating, vibrations, life force, living energy, Ch’I,  universal energy, clearing, and meridians.  These are all terms based in Taoist, Hindu, and other eastern philosophies and religions.  The same terminology is also employed by Wiccans (Witchcraft). Many alternative therapies are associated with New Age ideology and healing, based on the idea that God is a universal force or energy rather than our Christian belief in a personal God and Heavenly Father.” [Samaritan Ministries]
 
Claims that aromatherapy is effective in the treatment of sicknesses that have spiritual overtones (such as anxiety, depression, fear, and guilt) raise serious questions for Christians.   Consider this quote:  “Olfaction—the sense of smell—is the only one of the five senses that is directly connected to the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing as well as memory and hormone balance.  The other senses (hearing, sight, taste, and touch) are all connected to the thalamus, another region of the brain.  The limbic system regulates fear, anger, depression, anxiety, happiness, and sadness and is believed that a scent entering the olfactory bulb has the ability to affect all these emotional responses” (The Science of Scents—Essential Oils and Emotion).
 
 As Christians, should we be comfortable with manipulating emotions, as well as memory, hormones, and heart rate, with essential oils?  We must use spiritual discernment when encountering certain applications of explanations of the oils. Questions should be asked of any practitioner regarding everything that will happen during aromatherapy.  When massage is involved, ask whether this is purely a physical massage or whether the practitioner is interacting with “life energies” or any other form of spiritual power” (Alternative Medicine:  The Christian Handbook).
 
The philosophy of Aromatherapy is that people can get rid of physical, mental, emotional and even spiritual ills through the judicious use of aromatic essential oils.  Aromatherapy administered in a salon will likely involve taking a sample of the patient’s blood to determine through analysis which essentials oils are needed by the individual.  The prepared oils are then applied through massage using German soft tissue massage and acupressure points along the spine (The Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine and Self-Help).
 
In Conclusion
       Again, to draw any profitable conclusion, we need to distinguish between marketing
       strategies that label products with any fragrance added as “aromatherapy” and the much
       more serious and spiritually significant  practice of holistic aromatherapy.   For many 
       Christians, the line between what is spiritually safe regarding essential oils and that which is
       dangerous is too blurred to risk a chance.  For those who adamantly defend their use of
       essential oils as a Biblical practice, keep in mind that the steam distillation process
       used to make essential oils wasn’t invented until 900 years after Jesus’ death.  Essential oils
       as we know them were not used in Biblical times.
 
 


 
 
 
 
Safe Harbor Ministries
 
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SPIRITUAL HOUSE CLEANING
                                                      Safe Harbor Ministries
What is the spiritual atmosphere of your home?  Most Christians would say they want their homes, as well as their lives, to reflect the presence of Christ.  Too often, however, they don’t.  The reason?  The spiritual atmosphere of their homes has been polluted by practices, behaviors, and/or objects that give the enemy the right to oppress the inhabitants.  Satan is a legalist.  He cannot have access to us unless we have opened a “door” to him.  What we watch, listen to, play with, seek entertainment from, decorate with, and put faith into can allow the enemy to infiltrate our homes and torment us.  One of his most successful tactics is to minimize the spiritual influence and potential damage to us as a result of what goes on in our homes.  Even the very land our homes are built on can affect our peace and well-being.


Ephesians 5:8-11 says:  “For you were once in darkness, but now you are light in the Lord.  Walk as children of light . . .  finding out what is acceptable to the Lord.  And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.”  Spiritual house cleaning is never to be done out of fear or superstition, but rather out of devotion to the Lord and a desire to please Him.  Ask yourself if any sacrifice is too great in order to have a peaceful, godly, wholesome environment in your home.  As Christians, we are born into a spiritual battle.  We are in a real war and Satan is not shooting blanks.  We are accountable to walk in the light of truth that God reveals to us, including a sober understanding of spiritual warfare and our authority over the enemy (Luke 10:19).    Just as we would not leave food around that would attract pests, we must not leave items around that draw and attract demonic forces to our living space.  Certain objects are like a heat-seeking missile, drawing  enemy fire straight to the bulls eye—you and your house! 


If questionable items in the home belong to a roommate, spouse, or family member other than yourself, appeal to the owner of the item in love with as many facts as you can present.  It will then be up to them to discard the item or keep it.  If they refuse, ask the Lord to intervene and to protect you in the mean time.


Perhaps the most compelling reason to cleanse our homes spiritually is so that we can achieve sustained victory in spiritual warfare.  In Joshua 7, God told Joshua to sanctify the people and get rid of the “accursed thing”.  In like manner, we need to cleanse our homes and consecrate our lives to Christ.


Some warning signs of oppression in a room, apartment, or house are:


·         Coldness, heaviness, eeriness, foggy or smoky- looking areas of the house
·         Foul smells
·         Doors that open and close, the sound of footsteps, objects falling or disappearing, etc.
·         Nightmares and disturbed sleep
·         A feeling of being choked or heaviness on your chest in the night
·         Uneasiness, anger, lust, depression, fear, etc. upon entering a certain room or part of the house. 
·         Chronically restless, unhappy children or even pets (birds and cats are especially sensitive to oppression).
·         Unexplained illness (sudden severe headaches, stomach aches, itching, asthma/allergies, extreme fatigue/apathy, etc.)


Here are some areas to “clean up” in order to experience freedom.


1.       A demonized person died there (of murder, suicide, etc.) and their spirit now inhabits that physical space.  These are called “familiar spirits” and are what the secular world refers to as “ghosts” or “haunted houses”.  In actuality, they are demons.  When a person dies, their spirit goes immediately to either heaven or hell.  God does not allow them to roam the earth or come back to earth.  See:  Luke 16:19-31 and Luke 23:43. 
2.       Unclean Sexual spirits may remain in a house, room, or even in furniture where a person was molested or raped. Prostitution, adultery, homosexuality, or viewing pornography also gives the enemy a place in your home.
3.       Occult practices
Occult practices that invite demonic spirits into the house include playing with Ouija boards, Tarot card reading, séances, Zodiac/horoscope readings, seeking psychic guidance, hypnosis, etc.  Objects associated with those practices must be destroyed.  Practices such as Yoga or Martial Arts must be forsaken and any books, clothing, videos, etc. that accompanied them should be discarded as well. “He has called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light” (I Pet. 2:9).
4.       Books, Movies, and Video games that glorify violence and the occult provide a pathway for the enemy to infiltrate your home.  Guard against themes of the supernatural (zombies, vampires, werewolves, reincarnation, sorcery, magic, ESP, UFO’s, ghosts, witchcraft, mind-reading, etc.). Don’t allow the devil to dump his garbage in your home.
5.        Physical abuse and violence  in the home can give access to demonic spirits. Constant strife and anger are fertile ground for the demonic also.
6.       Objects associated with false religions, gods & goddesses, the occult/witchcraft, etc. [Buddha, Indian Spiritism, Hindu, Islam, Greek Mythology, etc.]  Frogs, owls, crows, and wolves are commonly used as occult symbols/mascots.  “Abstain from every form of evil” (I Thess. 5:22).  These type objects often find their way into your home after a mission trip or vacation to foreign lands.  Be extremely cautious about items you receive as gifts or buy as souvenirs. 
7.       Ungodly music.  Secular music with themes of sexuality/lust/adultery, violence, rebellion, drug and alcohol abuse, or the occult will defile the spiritual atmosphere of your home.  Be very careful what music you listen to.
8.       Clothing, jewelry, pictures, or other memorabilia from former lovers, spouses, or friends need to be discarded.  Items that remind you of your past sinfulness need to go.  Possession of such articles allows an ungodly soul tie to remain with the person from your past and can sabotage your marriage and other relationships.  Also, get rid of similar objects passed down to you from relatives (especially if they were not godly people).  For example, a wedding ring passed down to you from a relative who was divorced could bring a spirit of divorce into your marriage if you wear it on your finger.  Be sure to also rid your home of any décor and artwork that do not reflect God’s character.


 
 
 
 
Cleansing
 
First purge your home of any objectionable items.  Don’t sell or give the objects away.  Destroy them by smashing them or burning them.  At the very least, throw them in the garbage.  Then pray the following prayer:


Heavenly Father, I repent for having these items in my home and I renounce all involvement with them in Jesus’ name.  I separate myself from all their influence.  If any evil spirits have gained access to my home and family through these objects and practices, I resist them with the blood of Jesus and command them to leave right now.  I break all evil curses that have been brought on me and my family in Jesus’ name.   I dedicate this land and home to Almighty God.  May Jesus Christ be honored in our home as we love and obey Him.  May the inhabitants and guests in this home enjoy supernatural peace and safety.   I invite the presence of the Holy Spirit into my home and purpose not to grieve Him by anything we say or do.


At this point anoint the door (a drop on the top and sides) and window frames of your home with anointing oil as you plead the blood of Jesus over them (like in Passover—Ex. 12:7,22-24).  Claim your house/ apartment for God’s purposes and let Satan and his demons know that they are no longer welcome there.  We also recommend that you walk the property line and sprinkle salt (we prefer rock salt) as a spiritual cleansing agent (II Kings 2: 20-22) as well as anointing oil poured out (a few drops as you walk along).  You can pray in the Spirit, read scripture, or sing hymns/choruses as you walk.  You may also find it helpful to leave praise and worship music playing in your home while you’re at work during the day.  Saturate the spiritual atmosphere with adoration to the Lord (“He inhabits the praises of His people”—Ps. 22:3).


You may also want to pray specific scriptures over each individual room as a form of blessing.  For example: 
·         Kitchen:  “So shall you serve the Lord your God and He will bless your bread and your water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of you” (Ex. 23:25).
·         Living room/Den: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).
·         Front door and entry:  The Lord will bless my coming in and my going out (Deut.).  As we acknowledge Him in all our ways, He will direct our paths (Prov. 3:5-6).
·         Bedroom:  “I lay down and slept; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety” (Ps. 3:5); “I will both lie down in peace and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety” (Ps. 4:8).
 
 Remember that your home, property, and possessions are under your dominion as you stand in your God-given spiritual authority.  “He has given you authority over all the forces of the enemy and nothing will harm you by any means” (Luke 10:19). You will be amazed at the hold these objects and practices have had on you.  The harder they are to get rid of the more you need to!  God’s Word clearly states that we are to have no other gods before Him.  Many of the objects listed here have been a substitute for God in our lives at some time—in others words they have been idols!  By ridding our homes of everything that grieves the Holy Spirit, we are in essence saying to Him that He is first and foremost in our lives. We are letting him know that we want a godly home that pleases Him and that we desire His presence more than anything. The Lord will honor your obedience to cleanse your home.  He desires to bless you with protection, health, and peace.


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