The Exorcist's Bestiary

As the shame demon appeared, the participant’s voice grew quiet and depressed, as their demeanor became droopy and sleepy. Since the demon was present, I forced them to tell me all the things they had been telling my participant, who was healing from some deep trauma in their past. The list ended up being pretty lengthy.

Should you yourself be dealing with shame or trauma, I thought it might be helpful to list Shame’s responses here. I’m hopeful that this will help you recognize some of the lies the enemy might be telling you. Remember: there is no truth in demons.

Lies from Shame Demons

• Your trauma is not believable to anybody, including the people who love you most
• You could have stopped the trauma from happening
• You’re responsible for the trauma happening
• You deserved the trauma
• You don’t deserve to be loved
• You don’t deserve to live
• You should wish you were dead
• There’s no way you can be loved. There’s no way.
• You’re pathetic
• You’re needy
• You’re detestable
• You’re used
• You’re permanently broken
• You’re a terrible parent
• You’re a burden
• You can’t do anything right
• You’re worthless
• You’re giftless, both spiritually and humanly
• You’re void of talent

Every last one of these statements is a lie. I worked with the participant through the list as Jesus slowly helped them heal with loving truth. May we enter into the inner healing of others as we help them overcome these thoughts and others.