Sometimes, I struggle over a phrase as I read a passage like, "God sent an evil spirit on Saul when his spirit departed him." I can't tell you how many times I have researched this after reading it because I need better understanding.
I love to use GotQuestions.org. It helps me to ask better questions and reframe my thinking.
This reminds me of how Saul sent for David to help him. When Saul was tormented he needed someone to come alongside him and assist him on the journey. When David played, the evil spirit stopped tormenting Saul. I know the reality of this. Don't you?
Have you ever struggled over something to the point of torment, but once you processed with someone you found relief?
I try to remind myself about what I know about God. God is all seeing, all knowing, and all powerful.
DRAW NEAR TO HIM!
Satan and his minions, dominions, and legions are NOT all knowing, all seeing, or all powerful.
RESIST THE DEVIL AND HE WILL FLEE.
Something powerful happens when we praise God. He inhabits the praises of His people. Saul found peace when David played music because the spirit of God was upon David. I choose to assume David was playing his Psalms or worship music to Saul.
GRIEVE, MOURN, and WAIL!
Resistance comes through repentance and turning toward God.
PRAISE HIM!
THANK HIM FOR HIS WORK IN YOUR LIFE!
GIVE HIM GLORY!
GOD inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3)
When we praise HIM as we face darkness, we will know His presence and He will dispel the darkness.
HUMBLE YOURSELF BEFORE GOD!
This is when you will be lifted up!
This is based on James 4:7-10.
So, I still want to ask, does God send evil upon people?
I think the thing that has helped me the most is that when I walk away from God, I open the door for evil to come upon me. Without the LORD'S presence to protect me this opens me up to attack. God gives me freedom to choose HIM! Even when it means I will suffer torment just like Saul if I should choose to walk away by disobeying HIM.
So, I choose God and trust Him as He chooses me!
