The Warfare in the Atmosphere

This is something I have been tracking since about 1988. Many of our ministry partners have heard me share this observation for almost 24 years. In America, during every four years of the major election cycle, there is this strong increase in the spiritual warfare in the atmosphere.  This is not just a personal mental observation but something that is experienced by a large majority of spiritually sensitive men and women.

                As an example, many years ago (in the early 1990’s) we were hosting our fall event in the early part of November in Pigeon Forge. The week prior, I would check into a hotel with books, Bibles, and note pads to study and pray away from the business of the normal day. I clearly recall it was Monday night before the Presidential election, and I was reading the Word and praying for a fresh word from the Lord for the Main Event.  The mental pressure and oppression was so great, that my mind was worn out and felt very confused.  I eventually checked out and went home, as the entire hotel area was charged with a negative, depressing feeling.  I began to observe that this was common every four years.

                I realize there is not a particular verse to explain what is occurring, except when we compare Scripture with Scripture. We know that Satan’s kingdom has a hosts of principalities and powers (spirits) that rule over nations and governments (Eph. 6:12).  Also, Satan is identified as the “prince of the power of the air” (Eph. 2:2), thus his rule or domain is in the upper atmosphere.  Daniel 10 also reveals that there are hindering spirits (prince of Persia and Greece) that dwell in the cosmic atmosphere and do battle with the angels of the Lord.

                Why would the spiritual atmosphere be so intense at this particular time? First, spirits are attracted to negative, people are filled with hate and negative hate filled words, and there is more negative filth spewed on a major election year – from both sides – than at any other time of the year in the nation. Second, the United States is the leading gentile power in the world and has been the leading nation to preach and promote the gospel. The adversary would love to put a stop to this important activity, thus bringing into position someone who would change the laws to work against the freedom to teach the truth of the Word, especially truth that is connected to shedding innocent blood and the covenant of a man and woman in marriage.

                It also seems that since 1988, there has always been a major or several major shakeups in ministries during election year.  This may seem as a stretch to some, but when the Body of Christ is dealing with something that the media exposes and it is related to known ministries, it takes the “steam” out of their interest in the events surrounding the nation, including their desire to become heavily involved in the process of choosing whom they believe is the correct choice to lead the nation.

                Therefore, if you feel oppression, depression, hindered in your prayers, and a feeling of foreboding then it can be a part of the spiritual warfare we are encountering in the atmosphere during this season.  Thankfully, as with Daniel, God has assigned angelic messengers to assist in the warfare we encounter in the spirit realm.