Greg's Story

The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.
- From the film: The Usual Suspects

People often ask, "Why do bad things happen to good people?" My answer would have to be, "Are you kidding me?"

The devil, unfortunately, does exist and he interferes in the lives of human beings. As St. Peter tells us,

"Be sober and vigilant. Your opponent the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for (someone) to devour."
1 Peter 5:8

We certainly help the devil along with our sinfulness, but the fact is, he is a force to defend yourself against.

At the same time, one must be very careful not to fall into the trap of thinking that everything bad that happens is the devil's fault. Definitely, every bad act by a person is that person's own choice. The devil just helps us make all the wrong choices. But we can't blame the devil for our failings.

Scripture tells us that the devil was an angel. What is it that God created angels to do? What is their primary roll? To carry messages to human beings. These messages, more times than not, come in the form of thoughts. So angels can plant thoughts in our minds. These fallen angels of hell still have the power to plant thoughts in our minds. Did you ever think something really horrible and wonder "Where did THAT come from?!?" Hopefully you dismissed the thought right away and drove it out. But these nightmarish thoughts and temptations come from the evil one. Thank God we have protection.

The word of God is powerful! The sign of the cross is powerful! The rosary is a great weapon to be used against them, and holy water keeps them at bay. Defend yourself! But be assured, as you rise in holiness; as you walk in the ways of the Lord, you become a wanted man. A target. A hunted individual. The devil will assail you with doubts and fears and even misfortune. I have experienced this myself as I have grown spiritually and seen it happen to friends in our church. But don't be afraid! You are not forsaken! I promise you, trust in God. His power is far greater. He will come to your aid, because he loves you as his own child. Thank God, we're wanted by Him!

My daughter says this song scares her. My friend called it "creepy". That's exactly the feeling I was trying to convey - until you get to the refrains. Then the chords change from minor to major and the words change from darkness to light. This song dances between heaven and hell. Between the two forces that want us. One of light, and one of darkness. Walk in the light and be protected by Jesus Christ!

Be watchful, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

- 1 Corinthians 16:13