Entry Point Number 6: Rebellion/Disobedience

For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has also rejected you from being king.  (1 Samuel 15:23)

Rebellion and disobedience has been a normal part of the human condition since Adam and Eve first bit into the forbidden fruit.  There is something hardwired into us (pride) that continually frames our response to “I’ll do it my way.”  Too often we make decisions and react to situations with no regard to what God’s will is for us.  Satan can use these moments of disobedience (especially significant episodes) to attack us and put us under spiritual bondage.

As we’re reminded by the St. Padre Pio Center for Deliverance Counseling, “It is the will of God for us to be obedient to parents, to civil government, to the Church, and to the pastors who are over us. We have two biblical responsibilities in regard to these authority figures: 1) Pray for them; and 2) submit to them. The only time God permits us to disobey those in authority over us is when they require of us an act or acquiescence in ways that are contrary to Church Law, Natural Law, or Divine Law.”

That leaves a lot of opportunity for us to be rebellious, even if we don’t realize we are being rebellious.  Perhaps you like to drive faster than the speed limit.  Perhaps you like to push the limit with your employer.  Perhaps you pick and choose what you want to believe relative to what is taught by the Church.  These are all examples of rebellion that can leave yourself open to bondage.

Following the line authority is an act of faith where we must believe the person’s source of authority is God and that they will ultimately be judged by how they used that authority.  But, following the line of authority does not mean you should allow someone to abuse you.  If you feel someone in authority is being abusive, then you will likely need to ensure there are appropriate boundaries and potentially make the decision to end the relationship.  Discussing this matter with a spiritual director can help you frame the situation, understand where God is in the midst of it, find forgiveness and closure, and discern next steps.

A spiritual director can also help you root through any rebellious moments you have had in your past, bring those moments to the Light and Truth of Christ, renounce any spirits that were able to take advantage of those moments, and ultimately help bring healing, closure, and freedom in Christ!