The binding of speaking or inability to speak does not necessarily come from Satan. In the Book of Mormon a man was struck dumb by I assume the power of the Spirit of God. I have a similar experience while giving a priesthood blessing, a short period of time unable to say anything after laying hands upon the recipients head. I later learned that when a person not part of the blessing left the room, my abilit to speak returned immediately. We either do or do not have power over Satan, you can't have it both ways. The scriptures seem to hold out the hope that in certain conditions Satan has no power over us, especially when we resist Satan. I know that God and Jesus Christ do have superior power and strength. I know that as I am able to honor my covenants, the Spirt can dwell within me and that the Spirit of God also imparts to me sufficent power to overcome. We have a sure tool in the priesthood. Faith is another tool, but I fear my faith might melt in fear should I have been confronted as Joseph was. The priesthood never fails, save it be mishandled.
Scot ProctorJuly 18, 2024
Dear Tiffany, you are absolutely right. I did not begin to touch on the power of the faith of women (or anyone) who also can cast out Satan in the name of Jesus Christ. It is a big enough topic to make me want to do more writing on that. Thank you for your insight and correction. --Scot.
Sara GrovesJuly 17, 2024
Scott, this article is so timely! It opens our eyes and understanding that though the evil one is powerful, God's power is greater! That though the darkness that can surround us and fill our minds with fear of destruction, the Light of truth and Christ is a winning power that can fill out hearts with the strength to push that darkness away for good! Thank you for sharing such insights and wisdom. Looking forward to part two!
TiffanyJuly 17, 2024
I love the article, but one thing I disagree with is your statement about only male Melchizedek priesthood holders could cast out the devil. This is not found in the scriptures to be true and is not backed up by the handbook of the church or D&C 35.:8-9. Essentially, anyone who has faith and calls upon Jesus Christ name can cast out the devil.
DaveJuly 16, 2024
I've often thought that some eternal law must require equal access for influence in our lives from both heaven and hell. Adam & Eve, Moses, Jesus, and Joseph Smith all received heavenly communications with God which were followed or accompanied by temptations or visitations with Satan. God showers us with love and encouragement; while Satan surrounds us with fear, doubts, and shame.
On a vacation cruise this year, I noticed how the cruise ship is secured in port. Each end of the ship has multiple mooring ropes that extend from the ship to the bollards or rings on the dock. These ropes are pulled tight to ensure that the ship is not moved by the waves of the sea.
Similarly, our covenants that we make in church and in the temple bind us closely to God. As we keep those covenants, God provides us additional help in overcoming the world, including discerning and dealing with evil influences in our lives.
GSJuly 16, 2024
This is so true and timely. Thank you so much Scot!!
Exactly what I needed, as I have been in the biggest battle with the adversary in my life.
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Douglas NadybalJuly 21, 2024
The binding of speaking or inability to speak does not necessarily come from Satan. In the Book of Mormon a man was struck dumb by I assume the power of the Spirit of God. I have a similar experience while giving a priesthood blessing, a short period of time unable to say anything after laying hands upon the recipients head. I later learned that when a person not part of the blessing left the room, my abilit to speak returned immediately. We either do or do not have power over Satan, you can't have it both ways. The scriptures seem to hold out the hope that in certain conditions Satan has no power over us, especially when we resist Satan. I know that God and Jesus Christ do have superior power and strength. I know that as I am able to honor my covenants, the Spirt can dwell within me and that the Spirit of God also imparts to me sufficent power to overcome. We have a sure tool in the priesthood. Faith is another tool, but I fear my faith might melt in fear should I have been confronted as Joseph was. The priesthood never fails, save it be mishandled.
Scot ProctorJuly 18, 2024
Dear Tiffany, you are absolutely right. I did not begin to touch on the power of the faith of women (or anyone) who also can cast out Satan in the name of Jesus Christ. It is a big enough topic to make me want to do more writing on that. Thank you for your insight and correction. --Scot.
Sara GrovesJuly 17, 2024
Scott, this article is so timely! It opens our eyes and understanding that though the evil one is powerful, God's power is greater! That though the darkness that can surround us and fill our minds with fear of destruction, the Light of truth and Christ is a winning power that can fill out hearts with the strength to push that darkness away for good! Thank you for sharing such insights and wisdom. Looking forward to part two!
TiffanyJuly 17, 2024
I love the article, but one thing I disagree with is your statement about only male Melchizedek priesthood holders could cast out the devil. This is not found in the scriptures to be true and is not backed up by the handbook of the church or D&C 35.:8-9. Essentially, anyone who has faith and calls upon Jesus Christ name can cast out the devil.
DaveJuly 16, 2024
I've often thought that some eternal law must require equal access for influence in our lives from both heaven and hell. Adam & Eve, Moses, Jesus, and Joseph Smith all received heavenly communications with God which were followed or accompanied by temptations or visitations with Satan. God showers us with love and encouragement; while Satan surrounds us with fear, doubts, and shame. On a vacation cruise this year, I noticed how the cruise ship is secured in port. Each end of the ship has multiple mooring ropes that extend from the ship to the bollards or rings on the dock. These ropes are pulled tight to ensure that the ship is not moved by the waves of the sea. Similarly, our covenants that we make in church and in the temple bind us closely to God. As we keep those covenants, God provides us additional help in overcoming the world, including discerning and dealing with evil influences in our lives.
GSJuly 16, 2024
This is so true and timely. Thank you so much Scot!! Exactly what I needed, as I have been in the biggest battle with the adversary in my life.
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