Day 15: January 19, 2026

The Closer You Get

Devotional: 

“So the followers brought him to Jesus. As soon as the evil spirit saw Jesus, it attacked the boy. He fell down and rolled on the ground, foaming from his mouth.”

Mark 9:20 (ICB)

A father brought his demon-possessed son to Jesus after years of suffering. He did not give up, even after the disciples were unable to help. He kept moving forward until his son stood before Jesus Himself.

When someone draws near to Jesus for deliverance, the enemy often reacts violently. When the demon saw Jesus, it threw the boy into convulsions. Similar scenes appear when Jesus encountered the man among the tombs (Luke 8:26-39), the crippled woman in spiritual bondage (Luke 13:10-17), or when He confronted other demonic strongholds (Luke 4:31-37). The closer people came to Jesus, the more resistance they faced. This doesn’t mean the enemy is winning. It means he knows he is losing.

The enemy may intensify his efforts when he sees freedom approaching. He will make last minute attempts to destroy, distract, or display power. But God always has the final say.

This is why seasons of fasting and prayer often feel intense. When we pursue freedom, healing, or deeper intimacy with God, spiritual resistance may increase. The enemy does not want us free. But increased resistance does not mean we should retreat. It means we are close. The enemy tried to destroy the boy with fire and water. God already proved he has power over the elements!

But after He cast out the demon, “Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up.” The closer you get to Jesus, the enemy may turn up the heat, but Jesus always has the power to lift you up.

Reflect

Where have I experienced increased resistance as I’ve pursued freedom or grown closer to Jesus? How might that be a sign that deliverance is near?

One Step Forward

When resistance shows up, don’t retreat. As you take one intentional step closer to Jesus through prayer, fasting, worship, or asking for help, trust Him to lift you up